Saratoga TODAY January 13 - 19, 2023

Kristin and Augie Freemann, along with their son Kody, spent 2022 traveling across the state to visit every available Stewart’s location. Photo provided by Kristin Freemann. See Story pg. 12

Ballston Spa girls varsity bowler Kennedy Barker pictured with head coach Ted Snyder. Dylan McGlynn photo. See Story pg. 34

History OF SARATOGA TADDEUS KOSCIUSKO –HERO OF

TWO WORLDS

by Paul Perrault | Sponsored by The Saratoga County History Roundtable Contact The Saratoga County History Roundtable at: saratogacohistoryroundtable@gmail.com

Ever since it opened to traffic on April 11, 1960, thousands of Saratoga County residents have daily passed over the Mohawk River on the Northway and think they are on the Twin Bridges. Few realize that the bridge is really named for one of America’s greatest heroes – Taddeus Kosciusko.

Tadeusz Kosciuszko (Taddeus Kosciusko is the Anglicized version) was born to minor Polish nobility on February 4, 1746 and educated at the School for Knights in Warsaw. There, he studied not only military science but also history, philosophy, Latin, French, German, geography, and engineering. He completed his studies in France attending lectures at the Academy of Fine Arts and at military schools.

Because Poland was dominated by its larger neighbors Prussia and Russia, ambitious young men such as Taddeus found opportunities lacking and so he immigrated to America in 1776. His military skills were sorely needed in the Continental Army which was composed mostly of farmers. He was immediately given a commission as a Colonel of Engineers and later promoted to head engineer of the Army.

He was soon attached to the Northern Army in response to Gen. “Gentleman Johnny” Burgoyne’s impending invasion from Canada. Assigned to assess the defenses of Fort Ticonderoga, he recommended that a battery of artillery be placed on Mount Independence. The commander foolishly ignored this advice and the British captured the Fort after they placed their artillery on Mount Independence. As the Americans retreated south from Fort Ti, Kosciusko destroyed bridges, felled trees and dammed streams thus providing the needed time to regroup and select a good defensive position from which to meet the enemy. That place was Saratoga.

Kosciusko’s array of defensive positions, particularly on Bemis Heights overlooking the Hudson River, frustrated the

British Army when they attached on September 19 and again on October 7, 1777. When Burgoyne realized he could not proceed and was unable to return to Canada due to the approaching winter, he surrendered. General Gates, the Commander at Saratoga, later wrote that “the great tacticians of the campaign were the hills and forests which a young Polish engineer was skillful enough to select for my encampment.” If the Battle of Saratoga was the turning point of the American Revolution, then Taddeus Kosciusko was at the hub of the turn.

Other sites where Kosciusko applied his talents were at Peebles Island at the confluence of the Mohawk and the Hudson in Waterford and at West Point. His earthworks at Bemis Heights and Peebles Island can still be seen today while his plans for defending West Point were those that Benedict Arnold tried to sell to the British. After Saratoga, he transferred to the Southern Department as Chief Engineer and participated in most of the important battles in that area until Cornwallis’s surrender in 1781.

At the conclusion of the war, a grateful Continental Congress promoted him to Brigadier General, granted American citizenship and gave him a land grant. He was also admitted to the prestigious Society of the Cincinnati and the American Philosophical

Society. Prior to returning to his native Poland, he wrote to his good friend Thomas Jefferson, “I hereby authorize my friend Thomas Jefferson to employ the whole thereof (his estate) in purchasing Negroes from among his own or any other and giving them liberty in my name”. To his shame, Jefferson neglected to carry out Kosciusko’s wishes. In Poland he led the opposition to Russian interference in the internal affairs of Poland. When war broke out with Russia (referred to as Kosciusko’s Uprising), he won many battles but eventually was wounded and captured. Released in 1796, he was destined to wander throughout Europe until his death in 1817.

The poet Byron said that “Kosciusko was that sound that crashes in a tyrant’s ear” and Jefferson pronounced him “as pure a son of liberty as I have ever known.” Next time you cross his bridge, shout out a hardy “Dziekuje” for our liberties.

Paul Perreault has been the Malta Town Historian since 2009. He served as principal in the Ballston Spa School District from 1978 until 1998 and as a history teacher at Shenendehowa High School from 1967 until 1975. He is the editor of the Gristmill, published quarterly by the Saratoga County History Center. Paul can be reached at historian@ malta-town.org

Twin Bridges – Rt 87 Northway.

Photo provided by The Saratoga County History Roundtable.

Saratoga County History Center Campaign Raises $56K

Ballston Spa Public Library Receives $100K Award from Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust

BALLSTON SPA —

The Saratoga County History Center announced its “Finish the Job!” campaign raised $56,553 to help preserve the Brookside Museum and its history.

The funds will replace 70-year-old storm windows, renovate the museum’s storage areas and store, refinish floors, and enhance its energy efficiency.

The trustees of the Saratoga County History Center thank the community for their generosity

and commitment to preserving public history.

“Support for our ‘Finish the Job!’ campaign is the second capital campaign for the Saratoga County History Center,” said Sean Kelleher, vice president of the history center. “The first campaign fund-ed the restoration of the iconic porch; now we are doing energy efficiency and building restora-tions that will allow visitors to safely access the museum, grounds, and library for generations to come.”

BALLSTON SPA —

The Ballston Spa Public Library (BSPL), The Friends of the Ballston Spa Public Library, and the BSPL Board of Trustees, announced they have received a $100,000 award from the Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust, to support a new reading room addition as part of

the library’s master plan.

The project will bolster the Library’s public spaces and programming to better serve the public, according to a statement issued by the library, and is expected to result in an increase in the number of public programs offered and in the number of programs hosted at

the library by partner groups. The Alfred Z. Solomon Charitable Trust was established to benefit nonprofit scientific, medical, educational, cultural, religious, and charitable organizations by funding projects and programs in memory of the Trust’s founder, Alfred Z. Solomon.

Photo provided.

Photo provided.

D.W. (Bill) VanBunschoten

GANSEVOORT — D.W. (Bill)

VanBunschoten died Monday, September 5, 2022, while in rehabilitation in Vermont. He was 88. Born April 19,1934, he was a lifelong resident of

Saratoga Springs. Bill was the Van in Van-Mar Builders; he started businesses in downtown Saratoga to help bring it back to life. Bill and his late wife Cynthia ran and owned Lake Tuck-Away campground. They also did meals on wheels as well as different area food pantries, soup kitchens and children’s benefits at Christmas time. Bill was also involved with the NYS Jaycees, Elks Club as well as other charitable organizations. He is predeceased by his wife Cynthia and daughter Kelly. He is survived by his son William VanBunschoten and his wife (Vicky Benton), two daughters Deborah Roy and Kimberly Winters and her husband (Jeff) as well as five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Private services were held at the grave site.

Paul DeMartino

GREENFIELD — Paul DeMartino passed January 4. A funeral service was held Monday, January 9 at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs. A graveside service was held at St. Peter’s Cemetery. For online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com

Eleanor Lanzo Wittmann

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Eleanor Lanzo Wittmann (77) died peacefully at home on 1/10/2023. Calling hours: 4-7, Tuesday, 1/17/2023 at Burke Funeral Home. Mass, 10 a.m., Wednesday, 1/18/2023 St. Clement’s Church followed by burial, 11:30 a.m. at Saratoga National Cemetery. Memorial donations: American Cancer Society (1 Penny Ln, Latham, NY 12110). www. burkefuneralhome.com

Vicki Steel Freeman

SARATOGA SPRINGS — It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the death of Vicki Steel Freeman. Services and burial will be private at the direction of the family. A Celebration of Life will be held January 13 at 3 p.m. at the ITAM in Saratoga Springs. For online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com

Justin Kreider

MALTA — It is with profound sorrow that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Justin Kreider, age 47, who suffered a fatal heart attack on Dec. 29. Calling hours were held Sunday, 1/8/23, Burke Funeral Home. Private burial. www. burkefuneralhome.com

Sherry L. Anderson (Walczak)

MIDDLE GROVE — Sherry

L. Anderson (Walczak) left to be with the angels after a brief illness on January 4, 2023. A celebration of life took place Saturday, January 7, 2023 at The Italian American Club, 247 Grand Avenue, Saratoga Springs. For online condolences, visit www. compassionatefuneralcare.com

Burke & Bussing Funeral Homes

Burke & Bussing Funeral Homes

Josephine F. Natale

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Josephine F. Natale, 104 passed away on January 6, 2023. Calling hours are 4-7, 1/13/2023 at Burke funeral home. Mass is 10 a.m., 1/14/2023 at Church of St. Peter followed by burial in St. Peter’s cemetery. Donations to Catholic Daughters of the Americas. www.burkefuneralhome.com

Burke & Bussing Funeral Homes

Burke & Bussing Funeral Homes

Vernon F. Ashline

GREENFIELD CENTER — Vernon F. Ashline, 63, passed January 6, 2023, after a short battle with cancer. Funeral services with military honors will be private. Memorial donations to honor Vern can be made to: Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256 (www.woundedwarriorproject. org/donate). Please visit www. burkefuneralhome.com

Burke & Bussing Funeral Homes

Burke & Bussing Funeral Homes

Rose Marie Zacek

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Rose Marie Zacek, 74, a lifelong city resident, died 1/9/2023. Calling hours are 9:30-10:30, Monday, 1/16/2023 at Church of St. Peter’s followed by Mass at 10:30 and burial in St. Peter’s Cemetery. Donations to Saratoga County Animal Shelter, 6010 County Farm Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. www. burkefuneralhome.com

Burke & Bussing Funeral Homes

Burke & Bussing Funeral Homes

SARATOGA COUNTY COURT

Matthew L. Perkins, 54, of Malta, was sentenced Jan. 3 to 1 to 3 years’ incarceration after pleading to felony DWI, first charged January 2022 in Moreau.

Tyler S. Moon, 37, of Greenfield, pleaded Jan. 3 to felony grand larceny, in connection with an incident in Corinth.

Sentencing Feb. 14.

William R. Boyd, 39, of Niskayuna, pleaded Jan. 3 to criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth-degree, first charged August 2022 in Moreau.

Sentencing March 7.

Anthony Pinkney, 40, of Albany, was sentenced to 2 years’ incarceration and 2 years post-release supervision, after pleading to felony attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance, first charged December 2021 in Moreau.

Rodolfo L. Ocel, 34, of Waterford, was sentenced to 3-1/2 years’ incarceration and 1-1/2 years post-release supervision, after pleading to felony attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance, first charged October 2019 in Waterford.

Robert J. Loya, Sr., 53, of Saratoga Springs, was pleaded to felony DWI. Sentencing June 21.

Shawn M. Finn, 35, of Malta, was sentenced to 7 years’ incarceration and 2 years’ postrelease supervision, after pleading to felony criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Brendan M. Wade, 35, of Fort Ann, pleaded to criminal contempt, and aggravated family offense, first charged July 2021 in Saratoga Springs.

Sentencing Jan. 24.

Justice D. Ross, 25, of Schenectady, pleaded to felony assault, first charged February 2022, in Waterford.

Sentencing March 29.

Todd Cleavland, Jr., 33, of Fort Edward, pleaded to promoting a sexual performance by a child, a felony, first charged May 2021 in Moreau, Sentencing Feb. 16.

Cassandra C. Morsellino, 31, of Amsterdam, was sentenced to 6-1/2 years in state prison and 5 years’ post-release supervision after pleading to attempted assault in the firstdegree, in connection with a Dec. 5, 2021 shooting in the town of Galway.

SARATOGA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

On Dec. 29, 2022, members of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit arrested 41-year-old Shahid Smith, after a lengthy investigation into drug trafficking within

Saratoga County. Smith is accused of selling and possessing quantities of crack/ cocaine, fentanyl, and crystal methamphetamine throughout Saratoga County. Search warrants were executed by the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Team, Narcotics Unit, and Saratoga Springs PD, at 260 Maple Ave., Saratoga Springs, and 104 Holly Lane in the Town of Wilton. Smith was charged with three counts criminal possession of a controlled substance, and one count criminal sale of a controlled substance.

Also charged were Dana Goossens, 31, of Saratoga Springs (four counts criminal possession of a controlled substance); Amie Buck, 40, of Wilton (three counts criminal possession of a controlled substance, two counts criminal sale), and Tabatha Heitzmann, 42, of Wilton (one count criminal possession of a controlled substance, one count criminal sale). As a result of the investigation and search warrant, scales, packaging material, quantities of fentanyl, crack/ cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, and Xanax were seized.

Jessica L. Jordan, 32, of Amsterdam, was charged Jan. 5 with DWI, aggravated DWI – child in vehicle, unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, endangering the welfare of a child,

reckless endangerment, as well as numerous vehicle and traffic infractions, in connection with alleged incidents that occurred in Clifton Park and Troy.

SARATOGA SPRINGS POLICE

Charlotte Perella, 20, was charged with possession of a forged instrument.

Kent Stafford, 31, of Vermont, was charged with DWI.

James Mott, 30, of Vermont, was charged with DWI, and moved from lane unsafely.

Nicholas Lynett, 21, Nicholas Debrino, 23, and Antonio Chiera, 23, were each charged with disorderly conduct: fight/violent behavior.

Michael Blake, 59, was charged with criminal trespass.

Gabrielle Montanye, 62, was charged with DWI, and unsafe backing of vehicle.

Makuan Jackson, 49, was charged with criminal mischief, and act in manner injure child.

David Lowers, 29, was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, and act in manner injure child.

Nolan Wilcox, 19, was charged with assault, criminal mischief, and criminal obstruction of breathing.

James Sheil, 32, was charged with assault.

Gregory Fitzgerald, 19, was charged with petit larceny.

Nathan Lynn, 28, was charged with felony DWI as a second offense, refusal to take a breath test, aggravated unlicensed operation, and vehicle equipment violation.

Town Of Greenfield Launches New Website & Digital Sign

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Chad Beatty 518-581-2480 x212 cbeatty@saratogapublishing.com

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Chris Bushee 518-581-2480 x201 cbushee@saratogapublishing.com

ADVERTISING

Jim Daley, Advertising Director 518-581-2480 x209 jdaley@saratogapublishing.com

Cindy Durfey 518-581-2480 x204 cdurfey@saratogapublishing.com

DISTRIBUTION

Kim Beatty 518-581-2480 x205 kbeatty@saratogapublishing.com

DESIGN

Kacie Cotter-Harrigan Creative Director, Graphic Designer

Kelly Schoonbeck Ad Designer, Web & Social Media

EDITORIAL

Thomas Dimopoulos City, Crime, Arts/Entertainment 518-581-2480 x214 thomas@saratogapublishing.com

Dylan McGlynn Business, Education, Sports 518-581-2480 x219 dylan@saratogapublishing.com

Anne Proulx Obituaries, Proofreader 518-581-2480 x211 aproulx@saratogapublishing.com

National Blood Donor Month: Give Blood on Jan. 16 at Saratoga Casino Hotel with the Red Cross

GREENFIELD — The Town of Greenfield this week launched its new website and installed a large digital sign in front of Town Hall.

Town Supervisor Kevin Veitch says the new website “will be a valuable resource and will be used as an important tool promoting efficiency and transparency.”

The site, at: www.greenfieldny. org. – will include new information, such as: Improved search capability via a community help section; Expanded information and forms from the Building, Assessor, Highway and Town Clerk departments; On-line forms and easy contacts to reach various departments; Dog license renewal on-line; Recreation program

information; Community event calendar; Historical timeline of Greenfield, and ongoing newsfeed and quarterly newsletters, among other things.

The new 3X6 sign is prominently placed on Route 9N in front of Town Hall, at 7 Wilton Road. The double-sided LED sign will have a 24-hour display broadcasting messages and will allow the town to share important community-wide messages like Amber Alerts, and town events and programs.

The Town of Greenfield is home to 8,200 residents in Greenfield, Porter Corners and Middle Grove. It spans more than 41,000 acres of land bordering the Adirondacks.

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

National Blood Donor Month has been observed in January since 1970 and recognizes the importance of giving blood and platelets while honoring those who donate.

On Monday, Jan. 16, Saratoga Casino Hotel is teaming up with the American Red Cross to host a Blood Drive in the hotel ballroom from noon to 6 p.m. Members of the local community are urged to roll up a sleeve and give blood to help patients in need.

To make an appointment or to learn more, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood. org, call 1-800-RED CROSS

(1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Completion of a RapidPass online health history questionnaire is encouraged to help speed up the donation process. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood. org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

Screenshot of The Town of Greenfield’s newly designed website: www.greenfieldny.org homepage

Annual Chocolate Fest Coming to Ballston Spa

Stewart’s Shops Announces 12 Months of ‘Make Your Own’ Prize Contests

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Stewart’s Shops has announced a 12-month ‘Make Your Own’ Prize Contest series that will take place each month throughout 2023 via a Stewart’s-themed online contest. The themed online contests will be announced the first Friday of every month on Stewart’s social media channels and StewartShops.com. Twelve lucky

contest winners will have the option to choose between a year’s worth of Stewart’s ice cream or a year’s worth of Stewart’s coffee.

The “Make Your Own” Prize Series will conclude with its final prize being, not only their choice of a year’s worth of Ice Cream or Coffee, but with the opportunity to take a private tour of the Stewart’s Dairy Plant with Gary

Dake, president of Stewart’s Shop, as their tour guide. Contest prizes will be provided in the form of Stewart’s gift certificates. Winners who select a year’s worth of ice cream will receive 52 half-gallon ice cream certificates, and winners who select a year’s worth of coffee will receive 180 twelve oz coffee certificates & a $280 Stewart’s My Money Card.

2023 Spring Seedling Sale Opens at Saratoga Tree Nursery

BALLSTON SPA — The Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association has announced the 8th Ballston Spa Chocolate Fest will take place on Friday, February 3 from 4-8 p.m. throughout the village of Ballston Spa.

Area restaurants, bakeries, and chefs are all welcome to compete to showcase their talents and tastes by preparing small, sample-sized chocolate offerings in 3 categories: Dessert (Sweet), Savory, and Chocolate Beverage. These treats will be judged by Chocolate-fest goers.

While savoring chocolate treats, visitors will enjoy a variety of First Friday activities going on throughout the Village, including live music, artist demonstrations and special promotions just in time for Valentine’s Day. A complete list of events can be found at Ballston.org.

In 2020, over 21 “Sweet Spots” were featured throughout the downtown area, and counted more than 1,500 visitors to the Village for this annual event. More information can be found at www.ballston.org

SARATOGA COUNTY — DEC operates the Colonel William F. Fox Memorial Saratoga Tree Nursery, which produces tree and shrub seedlings for conservation plantings on public and private lands. Native New York seed sources are used when available. The nursery’s annual spring seedling sale is open to all interested customers in New York and bordering states.

The Saratoga Tree Nursery is located just south of Saratoga Springs on Route 50. View the 2023 Trees and Shrubs Brochure (PDF) for a list of this year’s available species, their size, and their cost, as well as ordering information that is also found on the webpage. That may be found at: www.dec. ny.gov/docs/lands_forests_pdf/

treenurserybrochure.pdf.

The seedling sale runs from Jan. 3 through May 12. All orders are filled in the order received. Some species sell out quickly, so order early. Ordering by Phone: 518-587-1120, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is the best way to get the latest availability information and get your order in sooner.

NOW IS YOUR CHANCE TO GET YOUR PHOTOS PUBLISHED! Submit your “Photo of the Week” for a chance to be PUBLISHED IN PRINT in Saratoga TODAY Newspaper.

Liberty Saratoga Apartments Gets City Support for Development of 200-Apartment Workforce Housing Complex

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The City Council last week announced its support for the development of a 200-plus apartment complex on the city’s south side geared to attracting local teachers, young professionals, nurses, hospitality industry workers and firefighters and police.

The complex’s one-bedroom apartments are anticipated to range from $995 to $1,200 a month, while maximum rents in two-bedroom units could range from $1,200 to $1,650. The current

rental average in Saratoga Springs for a two-bedroom unit is $2,245.

Last year, Liberty Affordable Housing Inc., of Rome, N.Y., submitted its application to the city for a zoning map amendment in its effort to develop approximately 200 apartments in two, four-story structures on a portion of a wooded 30-acre lot on the corner of Jefferson Street and Crescent Avenue.

Last week, Saratoga Springs

Accounts Commissioner Dillon Moran announced that amendments to the city’s zoning and comprehensive plan had been granted by the Saratoga Springs City Council.

“The development of this project offers a significant boost to the number of apartments at a time which there are few options available. Healthcare and hospitality are core to the economy of Saratoga Springs, and the workforce should be able to live within the community that they work,” said Moran, in a statement.

The workforce housing community caps rents at a percentage of the region’s Average Median family Income, or AMI. The median family income in the Capital District region is $106,000. The project targets 60-80% of the AMI. To qualify to apply for an apartment at Liberty Saratoga the tenant/household verified income would range from just over $44,500 to nearly $85,000, and points to $900- $1,120 costs for a studio, $995-$1,200 for onebedroom, and $1,200-$1,650 for

two-bedroom apartments.

The property will be owned and managed by Liberty Affordable Housing Inc., and Liberty Saratoga Apartments are slated to be designed by local firm Phinney Design Group. The two four-story buildings will include conservation of almost 20 acres of land including 9 acres of wetlands that create a natural buffer

to other residential neighbors. The development is supported by NYS funding which requires compliance with green building programs such as EPA Energy Smart, NYSERDA’s New Construction Housing Program, NYS HCR Mandatory Green Building & Energy Efficiency Practices, and the 2020 Enterprise Green Communities Criteria.

Joseph Bruchac Nominated as First Saratoga Springs Poet Laureate - Inauguration Tuesday

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Saratoga Springs Poet Laureate Committee has recommended Mayor Ron Kim appoint Joseph Bruchac III as Saratoga Springs’ First Poet Laureate. The appointment and inauguration will take place during City Council on Jan. 17.

Bruchac was born in Saratoga Springs and traces his maternal ancestry back to some of the earliest inhabitants, the Abenaki people. He has authored more than 180 books for adults and children, including Thirteen Moons on Turtle’s Back, Code Talker, and Rez Dogs. His honors include a Rockefeller Humanities Fellowship, a National Endowment for the Arts Writing Fellowship for Poetry, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Native Writers Circle of the Americas.

The number of Poets Laureate positions in states, cities, U.S. Territories, and Tribal nations continues to increase, and according

to poets.org, all but five states in the United States have established Poet Laureate positions.

In 1985, New York established a state poet laureate position. It is currently held by Willie Perdomo who was elected in 2021 to a two-year term. At least seven municipalities in the state boast poet laureate positions – Albany, Buffalo, Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx, among them.

The positions is an important way to honor a poet and recognize the place that poetry has in a state’s cultural tradition and civic life, with the poet named to the role serving as ambassador of the art form, literature, literacy, and storytelling.

Bruchac holds a B.A. from Cornell University, an M.A. in Literature and Creative Writing from Syracuse and a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from the Union Institute of Ohio, as well as several honorary doctorates. His work as an educator includes three years of teaching in West Africa, and eight years of directing

a college program for Skidmore College inside a maximum security prison. With his late wife, Carol, he founded the Greenfield Review Literary Center and The Greenfield Review Press.

Bruchac was selected through a competitive nomination and interview process by members of the Poet Laureate Committee, chaired by Rachel R. Baum. His two-year term will run through December 2024.

Rendering of potential 200-unit housing project at Crescent Ave. and Jefferson St., submitted to the city October 2022.

Joseph Bruchac, the first Poet Laureate of the Spa City.

Photo by Trish Miller.

Breakfast Just Got EGGSPENSIVE

HPAI virus strains, which are fatal to chickens, are extremely infectious and spread rapidly from flock-to-flock. As of January 11th, the USDA reports 729 confirmed cases of HPAI in commercial and backyard poultry flocks in 47 states. This equates to a total of 57.83 million birds affected – a number that has more than doubled since October’s high of 2.11 million birds.

by Megin Potter for Saratoga TODAY

Eggs are nutritional, versatile, and easy to prepare, but the price of them has skyrocketed across the country in recent weeks. After hitting historic peaks during the holiday season, prices have remained stubbornly high due to shortages exacerbated by the deadliest surge of avian flu on record.

The outbreak began in December 2021 with the Eurasian Strain (EA) of the H5N1 virus in Canada before it spread into the United States. Then, another strain of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), EA H5, was confirmed. Both strains of the virus have now infected commercial and backyard flocks, wild birds, and mammals across North America.

According to the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), infected wild birds showing no signs of illness carry the disease when migrating, exposing domestic poultry. Every state in the country has reported cases of wild birds testing positive for HPAI with Florida, North Dakota, and Oregon among the hardest hit areas. Each of these states has documented more than 300 incidences of exposed birds.

New York has reported 251 cases of HPAI in wild birds, four of which occurred in Saratoga County in 2022 when two Canadian geese and two bald eagles were found to have died of the disease.

The last reported case of HPAI in New York’s domestic birds to APHIS was on November 12th, 2022. In total, 9,792 birds from one commercial flock and ten backyard flocks have been affected.

LOCAL IMPACT

Founded in 1948, the Thomas Poultry Farm in Schuylerville has been providing eggs to area supermarkets, retail shops, and restaurants in New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Western Massachusetts for generations.

The Thomas Poultry Farm supplies 4,300 dozen eggs to Stewart’s Shops each day. Stewart’s Shops, on average, sells approx. 1.6 million dozen eggs each year, with a weekly average of 30,000 dozen sold. During the weeks of Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, the average weekly sales of eggs increases to approx. 45,000 dozen.

The Thomas Poultry Farm’s 200,000 hens pump out 15,000 dozen eggs daily, a significant contribution to the local economy. Nationwide, the US poultry industry provides more than two million jobs, injecting $555.9 billion in economic activity, and $33.7 billion in government revenue (indicates a recent report by the USPOULTRY, the National Chicken Council, the National Turkey Federation, and the United Egg Producers).

Like many farms, the Thomas Poultry Farm’s egg prices change on a weekly basis and are set based on data reported in the Urner Barry Egg Index, an industry publication released every Thursday,

said Jennifer Thomas.

“Although we haven’t seen it yet, it’s very fair to say that in some places the price of eggs has tripled from where it was at this time last year,” said Jennifer Thomas.

As the supply of eggs falls drastically behind the demand, prices increase. The levels of avian flu during 2022-2023 have already surpassed those of 2015, when the country experienced a surge of the virus. It affected 50.5 million birds in 21 states but the Thomas Poultry Farm never experienced an infection and, because of their strict biosecurity measures, has escaped contamination this year, as well.

“The avian influenza that hit in the spring returned full force this winter but, knock-on-wood, we’ve not had any incidences of influenza on the farm, which is a good thing because the USDA makes you get rid of all your birds, not just the ones that are infected, and it can take months and months to recover. It can be a real challenge,” said Thomas.

HOW TO STAY SAFE

Because of holiday baking, the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas sees the highest seasonal demand for eggs, followed closely by the Easter holiday. Consumers however, may see egg prices fall again before then.

“As long as we don’t get another wave of infections during the Spring migration, we should see the market relax and prices get better in the next few weeks,” predicts Thomas.

Even with the price increases, eggs continue to be a relatively inexpensive protein source. Because Stewart’s Shops and

other establishments use eggs from local farms, they have more control, allowing prices to stay as low as possible for customers, said Erica Komoroske, Stewart’s Shops Director of Public Affairs.

“Our egg prices are lower than the supermarkets in many cases. When you buy eggs at Stewart’s, you are supporting the Thomas Poultry family farm that has been specializing in egg production for over 70 years! We pick up eggs every single day, so you can bet you are buying fresh and local!”

According to the CDC, it is still safe to eat properly prepared poultry and eggs after they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat kills bacteria and viruses, including the bird flu.

Many species are susceptible to HPAI, including mammals. Most mammals detected with the virus in the US have been found in the northern states. In New York, 13 incidences have been reported, 12 in red foxes and one in an amur leopard.

Human infections most often occur after close, prolonged, and unprotected contact with contaminated animals or surfaces. The CDC continues to develop vaccines against bird flu viruses. To protect yourself, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling poultry and eggs. Also, be sure to clean areas used for preparation immediately after use.

If you find a sick or dead bird, avoid direct contact. Wear PPE, including gloves, to pick it up and seal it in a plastic bag for disposal. For more information, contact the NYSDEC by calling 518-897-1210 or go to https://www.dec.ny.gov

Saratoga Springs Posts Vacancy Announcement Seeking City Attorney

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The city of Saratoga Springs on Jan. 6 posted a job vacancy announcement stating that it is seeking a City Attorney.

“It’s for a new position,” Saratoga Springs Mayor Ron Kim said, adding that longtime current city attorney Tony Izzo will be staying on.

“The volume of work is intense, and what is clear is we need additional assistance,” the mayor said.

Job Summary: The City Attorney position for Saratoga Springs is established by City Charter to serve as general legal advisor and provide direct advisory legal services and guidance to the Mayor and all City Council members along with various boards, committees, commissions, and departments as necessary. The City Attorney will have prime responsibility to monitor and enforce the laws and policies of Saratoga Springs before State, Federal, and administrative law bodies.

The posted salary is $95,000 to $120,000 dependent on experience, for an average workweek of 30 to 40 hours. Education and experience qualifications are required, and the deadline for the submission of resumes in Jan. 31.

CURRENT OPENINGS

Exams for the position of Police Chief, and exams for the position of Assistant Police chief will take place March 25.

As opposed to the city attorney

City Supervisor Tara Gaston Will Not Seek Re-election in November

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

Tara Gaston, one of two supervisors representing the city of Saratoga Springs, announced this week she will not seek re-election this fall.

“This is a decision I made for several reasons,” Gaston posted on her social media channel this week. “I will complete this term as supervisor, but that will not end my service to our community –even if looks a little different.”

Gaston, who was elected to three consecutive two-year terms starting in 2018, is one of 23 elected representatives serving

on the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors.

The Saratoga County Board of Supervisors will host their next monthly meeting at the county complex in Ballston Spa at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 17.

Saratoga Springs: Under Development Year-Round

posting - “Vacancy Announcement”

- the chief and assistant chief positions are posted as “Current Openings – Exam Announcement.”

The Chief salary is posted as $135,856 in 2023 and $138,573 in 2024.

The Assistant Chief salary is posted as $129,737 in 2023, and $132,332 in 2024.

Chief qualifications include a minimum of 2 years continuous permanent experience as Assistant Police Chief, or 5 years as Police Lieutenant, or 6 years as Police Sergeant – in the

city of Saratoga Springs Police Department. There are additional educational requirements.

Assistant Chief qualifications include 3 years as Police Lieutenant, or 6 years as Police Sergeant – in the city of Saratoga Springs Police Department, as well as educational requirements. Completed applications including a $25 exam fee for either position must be received in the Civil Service Office by Feb. 15. For more information about these and other jobs, visit the city website at: saratoga-springs.org

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The construction of new developments and the demolition of aging structures, appeals made of current zoning requirements and applications that seek area variances are presented to the city’s Land Use Boards throughout the year.

Ultimately, the recommendations and decisions made by those boards, staffed by resident city volunteers, go a long way into shaping what Saratoga Springs will look like.

Those three Land Use Boards are:

• The Saratoga Springs Planning Board. A seven-member citizen board appointed by the Mayor to seven-year staggered terms. Next meeting: 6 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 26.

• The Saratoga Springs Design Review Board. A sevenmember citizen board appointed by the Mayor to five-year staggered terms. Next meeting: 6 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 18.

• The Saratoga Springs Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). A quasi-judicial seven-member citizen board appointed by the Mayor to seven-year staggered terms. Next meeting: 6:30 p.m., Monday, Jan. 23.

Glass door entryway to Saratoga Springs City Hall, Jan. 3, 2023.

Photo by Thomas Dimopoulos.

Site Sketch Plan submitted Jan. 4 to the city regarding Excelsior Avenue Apartments, at 182 Excelsior Ave. – a project that seeks to demolish an existing main house apartment and carriage house, and develop three, threestory apartments with 12 units, totaling 36 apartment units.

Saratoga Springs City Supervisor Tara Gaston.

BALLSTON

BDC Cornerstone LLC sold property at 78 Cornerstone Dr to Timothy McNeil for $375,450

BDC Cornerstone LLC sold property at 82 Cornerstone Dr to Londa Savino for $336,275

Barbera Homes Kelley Farms

LLC sold property at 8 Paddock Pl to Hon Gong for $536,787

Barbera Homes Kelley Farms

LLC sold property at 4 Paddock Pl to Pryiaranjan Parida for $587,716

Kristen Cusano sold property at 14 Beacon St to Alan Cohen for $313,000

Michaels and Laraway Holdings

LLC sold property at 11 Summerhill Dr to John Viddivo for $536,015

CORINTH

ALCR Holding Company LLC sold property at 66 Woodland Trail to Gunnar Isaacson for $260,000

Edward Kostka sold property at 75 Cty Rt 10 to Allan Stevens for $130,000

GALWAY

Cyle Haggerty sold property at 4873 Jockey St to Dolores Hamilton for $399,900

GREENFIELD

Bryan Biagioli sold property at 380 Locust Grove Rd to Bob Bobeldyk for $605,000.

MALTA

Justin Garry sold property at 109 Wineberry Lane to Shana Kearney for $330,000

Rene Lehman sold property at 14 Herlihy Dr to Keegan Caraway for $231,975

Stefanie Bitter sold property at 127 Old Post Rd to Wilmington Savings Fund Society for $258,666

Michael Tomaso sold property at 74 Blue Spruce to Brian Fountain for $364,000

MILTON

James Nair sold property at 218 Falsetto Court to Gregory Amico for $439,900

Susan Pazmino sold property at 63 Deer Run Dr to Timothy Laux for $230,000.

SARATOGA

Anna Christopher sold property at 8 Timothy Dr to Megan Koloski for $229,500

John Grimes sold property at 50 Ferry St to Margaret Shaw for $369,000

Carrington Mortgage Services sold property at 85 Gates Ave to Meredith Penk for $181,000

James Stanton sold property at 1234 NYS Rt 9P to Nicholas Wenner for $605,000

John Niles sold property at 127 Cty Rd 69 to WJ Lane Holdings LLC for $550,000

David Reulet sold property at 832 Rt 29 to Cameron Smith for $237,000

Chandpur and Chittagong Properties sold property at 29 Pond St to Leah Groff for $210,900

SARATOGA SPRINGS

Daniel Salmanson sold property at 671 North Broadway to Maria Biagini for $1,725,000

Edward Gradwell sold property at 9 Hathorn Blvd to Silver Platter Properties for $240,000

Allen St. Peters sold property at 11 Pleasant Dr to Gregory Stanton for $195,000

Ralph Sotansky sold property at 20 Conver Dr to Jean Sotansky for $255,000

Wanda Allen sold property at 65 Gilbert Rd to Elisio Pereira for $290,000

Doris Miner sold property at 33 Clubhouse Dr to Ronald Gross for $330,000.

Shaun Lehnert sold property at 60 Hathorn Blvd to Megan McDonough for $293,000

WILTON

Thad Henley sold property at 14 Knollwood Dr to Jason Libert for $455,000

Amy Kwiat sold property at 3 Rose Terrace to Robert Tyree for $3,200,000

Sonoma Grove LLC sold property at 12 Berkeley Way to Kevin Ryan for $778,219

New York Development Group sold property at Edie Rd to Edie Rd LLC for $2,600,000

Michael Koebbeman sold property at 10 Cedarcrest Dr to Eric Hughes for $449,500

Jeff Wentling sold property at 11 Cambridge Ct to Brett Clatworthy for $685,000

This beautiful home at 671 North Broadway Saratoga Springs listed by Kate Naughton of Roohan Realty sold for $1,725,000.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED: Family Visits EVERY Stewart’s (358!) in 2022

CAIRO — Stewart’s Shops, one of the area’s most beloved businesses, has spread its operations throughout New York State and Vermont. And one family has seen them all.

Kristin and Augie Freemann, along with their son Kody, spent 2022 traveling across the state to visit every available Stewart’s location.

Augie Freemann said the idea came about after hearing of a couple who visited every Cracker Barrel location in the United States.

“I said to my wife, ‘Oh, that’s something we would do.’ And she said, ‘Yeah, we could go to every Stewart’s’,” said Freemann. “We looked into it, and it seemed feasible, so here we are.”

To up the challenge for themselves, the Freemanns decided they would visit every Stewart’s location within a calendar year. Residents of Cairo, the family began on Jan. 1, 2022, visiting nearby locations in Cairo and Greenville.

They also received some assistance from Stewart’s themselves. Kristin Freemann said the company shared a spreadsheet with the family, containing information about all of their locations.

“We’d pick a weekend and say, ‘Where do we want to go?’” said Kristin Freemann. “We would map out and also kind of decide how many we wanted to do in a given day.”

Stewart’s currently has 358 locations, the Freemanns said. While the Cairo and Greenville locations are relatively close to the family, some stores took quite a bit of driving.

“Some we had to be a little more strategic with, like any that were out in St. Lawrence County, out in Potsdam, Malone, and the ones that were up by Plattsburgh,” said Kristin Freemann. “Those we actually did as a weekend trip.”

The family said it was “really nice” to be able to see parts of the state they typically would not have traveled to.

“Up by Plattsburgh and Lake Champlain is beautiful, and we hadn’t really ever spent a lot of time up there,” said Kristin Freemann.

“Same with the St. Lawrence area, Thousand Islands, out that way was beautiful. So, it was really nice.”

They also reconnected with old friends along the way, with Freemann saying she met up with a friend who currently lives in Potsdam while the family was in the area.

“It actually became fun,” Freemann said. “I know people think we’re crazy. It was kind of a silly, crazy thing to do. ...We didn’t have any reason to do this other than it was a silly, fun thing to do as a family.”

As part of the challenge, the family had to purchase a product at each location.

“All three of us had to physically go into every single store, and we had to purchase something at every store,” said Kristin Freemann. “Fuel did not count. We obviously had to buy gas or whatever, but we would buy a product of some kind, at least one, at every store. … (Kody) got to pick a lot of the snacks, that was the fun part.”

Kody said his favorite snack from the experience was the gummies. The family said a majority of the stores had mostly similar offerings but did note some variety throughout the state.

“Especially when it came to their hot foods,” said Kristin Freemann. “Some would have a specific kind of breakfast sandwich, or a specific kind of chicken sandwich. There were times where we would find things that we hadn’t seen in other stores.”

The family also said one constant was the staff, who Kristin Freemann said were “so nice” at every location.

“All of the employees at every single store, across the board, were really friendly. That’s something that’s hard to say about a chain,” Freemann said. “Every single store we went into, everyone was really nice.”

The Freemanns finished their quest on the final day of the year, hitting eight stores on New Year’s Eve. Kristin Freemann said they saved six locations in Ballston Spa and two in Mechanicville for the final day of the journey.

“We strategically planned that as well,” said Kristin Freemann. “Because Saratoga County had the most, but they’re also very close together, we knew that if we left Saratoga County kind of to the end, that we would be able to make it work.”

The family’s final Stewart’s was on Church Avenue in Ballston Spa, where the original Stewart’s location first opened.

“Kody was concerned though, when we went into our last store, he said, ‘So does this mean we can’t go to Stewart’s anymore?’,” said Kristin Freemann. “I said, ‘Nope, we just don’t have to drive really

far to go to Stewart’s now.”

Ultimately, what began as the Freemann’s quest to visit every location of a beloved local chain turned into nearly a full year of quality time and fun as a family.

“It was really nice that we could just do something that was silly and fun, for no other reason than just to spend time with each other,” said Kristin Freemann. “We were able to spend quality time together, do something fun, and see parts of the state that we never get to see.

“Even those weekend trips we did where we were away, we did other things than go to Stewart’s. We would make a point to go on a hike somewhere. When we were in the Thousand Islands, we went and visited Boldt Castle. … It was really nice spending quality family time together just for fun. There was no reason for us to do this other than that.”

Photos provided by Kristin Freemann.

Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce Releases Insights for November 2022

SARATOGA COUNTY —

The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce has released insights from January to November of 2022, saying the county collected “a record amount of sales taxes when compared to the last three years.” The report also states that unemployment rates in the county “remains consistently lower than ever before” even with limited local workforce reductions.

Saratoga County collected $144.6 million in sales taxes from January to November, the report

states. This is a 5.3% increase from the same period in 2021, and a 23.5% increase from 2019.

Tax collections in the City of Saratoga Springs also increased to $15.2 million, up 16.3% from the previous year ($13.1 million).

In comparison to other local counties, Saratoga County’s sales tax collections increased at a higher rate than Schenectady County (4.2%), but at a lower rate than Albany and Warren Counties (11.2% and 8.3%, respectively).

The unemployment rate in

Saratoga County in November 2022 was 2.1%, the report says, with 2,600 people considered to be unemployed. There were 120,900 people employed in the county in November, which the report states is the highest number of people employed in the county in the month. The report also states that the labor shortage is expected to continue into 2023, saying “there are still so many local jobs unfulfilled,” despite limited workforce reductions.

Goldfish Swim School Opening Clifton Park Location This Summer

CLIFTON PARK — A new opportunity for kids to learn to swim will be coming to Clifton Park this summer. Goldfish Swim School, which has a location in Colonie, will be opening a school in the North Country Commons in Clifton Park.

Goldfish Swim School offers year-round swimming lessons to kids ranging from four months to 12 years old. They also offer family swims, party packages, and more.

“We want to make it convenient and easy for families to get their kids into regular, high-quality swim lessons at a place like Goldfish,” said Courtney Richardson, operations manager for the Colonie and Clifton Park locations.

Clifton Park was selected as the company’s second Albanyarea location, with Richardson saying this is due to the large number of families in the area.

“Given the success of our Goldfish Swim School Colonie location, it made sense for us to add an additional learn-to-swim facility to serve more families in the community,” said Richardson.

“We know that Clifton Park and Saratoga County families want to make sure that their kids learn to swim, as it is a critical life skill.”

The company will be constructing a 25 by 68-foot pool in their location at the Commons.

The total space is 6,800 square feet, Richardson said. The pool will be heated to 90 degrees, and is large enough to accommodate multiple lessons at once.

Students work with “highlytrained instructors,” in small class

sizes, Richardson said. Families can enroll in the lessons at any time.

The school will also have an air-conditioned viewing room for parents, as well as a snack bar and retail shop. There will be private changing rooms and a blow-dry station for swimmers, Richardson said.

Students are sorted into classes based on their skill level. Goldfish begins with caregiver/baby classes for children starting at four months old. The company also has a recreational swim team, Swim Force.

“Because we use a perpetual model versus sessions, students process through our curriculum at their own pace, and they can move

In terms of lodging, the report states that the county’s revenue per available room was $103.70, a 25% increase from the same period in 2021 and an 11.7% increase from 2019. Total occupancy for local hotels increased nearly 13% from 2021, says the report, and were 2% lower than in 2019.

The Greater Capital Association of Realtors reported that Saratoga County saw 2,776 closed real estate sales from January through November

2022. The report says this figure is “nearly identical” to numbers from 2019 and 2020, but is a 10% decrease from 2021 figures. The overall number of new listings has also decreased, “and as a result,” the county’s median sales price was $388,000, a 10% increase. Through the first eleven months of 2022, the report states that the amount of days a home is on the market continues to decline, and the percent of the original list price received is over 102%.

to the next level of classes at the same lesson time slot when they have mastered the skills in their current lesson level,” said Richardson. Richardson said Goldfish not only allows kids to learn to swim, but helps them build life skills and connections with fellow students and instructors.

“Swimming is an essential life skill. All kids need to learn how to be safer in and around the water,” Richardson said. “However, kids learn so much more at Goldfish Swim School. ...Ultimately, Goldfish is a place that both kids and parents want to come to each week while kids put in the repetition and practice to learn this critical life skill.”

Photos courtesy of Goldfish Swim School.

A graph showing the employment figures in Saratoga County from JanuaryOctober 2019 to 2022 (Via Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce).

2023 ECONOMIC PREVIEW

will be the continued raising of interest rates by the Fed.

by Stephen Kyne, CFP Sterling Manor Financial for Saratoga TODAY

2022 was an incredibly difficult year for the economy and the markets. In fact, it was the worst year for US stock markets since 2008. Rapidly rising interest rates meant that there were few places to hide as an investor, since even fixed income funds sank due to interest rate pressure.

The S&P 500, the most broadly used US index, ended the year down 20%, while the NASDAQ suffered a 33% loss, according to FactSet. You’ll be in good company if you open your December statement and find that your balance dropped in 2022.

Down years happen, and it’s something that every investor must accept. The question is: where do we go from here?

We think that the economy and markets will be impacted by several factors. The first of which

Caught flat-footed in early 2022, the Fed began a rapid series of interest rate increases in a desperate attempt to rein in rampant inflation, which resulted from the wanton subsidies and stimulus of the government’s pandemic response. Since interest rates are essentially the price of money, raising them should slow down economic activity, although it can be a messy and very imprecise process.

The goal of the Fed is to reduce inflation, while maintaining employment, and keeping the economy from crashing into recession. This is the so-called “soft landing”.

We expect continued interest rates increases through the first quarter of the year, and hope that, by then, the Fed will take a breather. The risk, since the Fed relies on prior-period data, is that it won’t know if it’s gone too far, until after it’s gone too far.

Recent economic data shows inflation beginning to ease, while we still have full employment, and an economy that rebounded in the 3rd and 4th quarters of 2022. One wonders, then, whether Jerome Powell would recognize a soft landing if it fell on him.

Internationally, we would be remiss if we didn’t give proper attention to the geopolitical risks facing the economy. 2022 saw much of the world deal with food,

energy, and physical insecurities, all of which weighed heavily on economic activity.

The war in Ukraine, which threatens to become a wider conflict, has weighed heavily on the region, and has likely pushed Europe into recession. Europe would deserve more credit for finding alternatives to Russian energy, if it hadn’t been so reliant on it in the first place. Its fate, and the fate of its markets in 2023, will likely be closely tied to events in Ukraine.

China’s somewhat manic departure from three years of zero-Covid has thrown the region into unknown territory. While the Chinese government has not issued official figures, many outside estimates indicate that a million citizens may die in just the first four months of 2023. The question will be whether, once the initial waves have passed through the population, the country will finally be able to get back to work, and will global supply gains finally normalize.

The US is, by far, the largest and most diverse economy in the world. It is two-years removed from the brunt of the pandemic. It stands the greatest likelihood of staying resilient in the face of economic pressures, compared to most of the rest of the world. That said, we do believe opportunities exist international, especially if the dollar continues to come down from its 2022 highs.

We believe that inflation in

the US has peaked and, barring being dragged into any major geopolitical issues, we believe the US markets stand a good chance of working toward a rebound in 2023.

This not to say that we think the NASDAQ will see the 50% increase it would need in order to recoup its 2022 losses, but we think the US economy continues to be resilient, and probably the best option for investors, relative to much of the rest of the world. We think that a US recession is still likely at some point in the not-too-distant future, however the ingredients are there to help make it fairly minor.

Continue to work closely with your Certified Financial

Planner® professional, as they help shepherd you through these uncertain times, and remember that markets ebb and flow and, while it’s impossible to say just when, we believe that the tide will come back in. Afterall, it always has.

Stephen Kyne CFP® is a Partner at Sterling Manor Financial in Saratoga Springs, and Rhinebeck.Securities offered through Cadaret, Grant & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Sterling Manor Financial, LLC, or Cadaret Grant & Co., Inc, SEC registered investment advisors. Sterling Manor Financial and Cadaret, Grant are separate entities.

Death and Taxes – Questions and Answers on Estate and Gift Taxes

Find out Whether your Loved Ones Will have to Pay the Tax Man

WHAT IS PORTABILITY?

by Matthew J. Dorsey for Saratoga TODAY

There is a lot of misunderstanding when it comes to estate and gift taxes. Over the last few years, the law in New York State has changed significantly. What follows are questions and answers on some of the most common issues regarding estate and gift taxes.

WHEN I DIE, WILL I HAVE TO PAY TAXES ON MY ESTATE?

Generally speaking, you will only have to pay taxes on your estate if the value of your estate is above the state and/or federal estate tax exemption amounts when you die. The current exemption amount for New York estate taxes is $6,580,000 and the current exemption amount for federal estate taxes is $12,920,000. Certain deductions, like charitable deductions, can reduce the size of your taxable estate.

IF MY SPOUSE INHERITS MY ESTATE, DO THEY HAVE TO PAY ESTATE TAXES?

No. There is an unlimited marital deduction for estate taxes. Generally speaking, no matter what amount of assets your spouse inherits from you, they do not have to pay estate taxes on them. The problem comes when your spouse later passes away, all of their estate (their own assets plus whatever they inherited from you) will potentially be subject to estate tax.

The federal estate tax exemption of the first spouse to die can be “ported” to the surviving spouse. This means that if your spouse dies in 2023 and the federal estate tax exemption amount is $12,920,000, your spouse’s unused $12,920,000 exemption can be carried over to your estate tax return when you later pass away. If the federal estate tax exemption when you die is $14,000,000 then your total estate tax exemption when you die is $26,920,000 ($12,920,000 + $14,000,000).

To take advantage of this “portability”, the surviving spouse must file an estate tax return for the first spouse to die – even though there will be no tax payable at that time due to the unlimited marital deduction. Portability of the estate tax exemption only applies to federal estate taxes –not New York estate taxes.

ARE GIFTS TAXABLE?

There are multiple exceptions that keep gifts from being taxable. If your gift does not fit under one of the exceptions, then you must file a gift tax return – IRS Form 709 – and potentially pay gift taxes.

WHAT ARE THE EXCEPTIONS TO GIFT TAXES?

Generally, a gift is not taxable if it is: a) made to your spouse, b) below the IRS annual exclusion amount, c) made to a charity, d) made to a political organization for its use, or e) paid directly to a medical or educational institution on someone’s behalf for qualified expenses.

WHAT IS THE “IRS ANNUAL EXCLUSION AMOUNT”?

The IRS annual exclusion amount represents a monetary value under which gifts can be made in a calendar year, without any applicable gift taxes. In 2023, the amount is $17,000. So in 2023, you can make a gift to someone of up to $17,000 without having to worry about gift taxes.

WHAT IF I GIVE OVER THE ANNUAL EXCLUSION AMOUNT TO SOMEONE?

If you give an amount over the annual exclusion amount, that excess amount needs to be reported on an IRS Form 709. A gift tax is calculated on the amount over the annual exclusion, but you won’t have to pay a tax at that time, unless you’ve made taxable gifts over your lifetime in excess of the applicable limits.

DO THE RECIPIENTS OF MY GIFTS NEED TO PAY TAX?

Generally speaking, the recipient of a gift does not have to pay gift tax or income tax because of the gift. The recipient may have to pay income tax on any income generated by the gifted asset.

WHAT IS “GIFT SPLITTING”?

You can “split” a gift by sharing the gift with your spouse. For example, if you gift $30,000 to your child in 2023, that amount is over the $17,000 annual exclusion for 2023 and therefore gift taxes would potentially apply. However, you can join with your spouse and “split” the gift into two gifts of $15,000 each, resulting in two gifts under the $17,000 annual exclusion for 2023. That “split” means the gift is not taxable, however you do have to file a Form 709.

Navigating the intricacies of the state and federal tax codes can be challenging. In order to minimize your tax burden and increase what you leave for your loved ones, you should consider contacting an experienced estate planning attorney or tax professional for advice.

Matthew J. Dorsey, Esq. is a Senior Partner with O’Connell and Aronowitz, 1 Court Street, Saratoga Springs. Over his twenty-five years of practice, he has focused on the areas of elder law, estate planning, and estate administration. Mr. Dorsey can be reached at 518-5845205, mdorsey@oalaw.com and www.oalaw.com

Saratoga Senior Center Calendar

5 WILLIAMS STREET, SARATOGA SPRINGS • 518-584-1621

January Events at the Center!

BEATLE’S MUSIC & TRIVIA WITH JEFF BRISBIN

Thursday, January 19 • 3 p.m.

Don’t miss this pairing! Jeff Brisbin & The Beatles! The Beatles are regarded as the most influential band of all time. Jeff, Saratoga’s very talented singer, songwriter would agree. He absolutley loves the Beatles! Light fare served. Please sign up. $10

TRIVIA NIGHT!

Monday, January 23 • 5:15 p.m.

Sponsored by Aetna. Pizza bites served. Bring your own beverage. Join us for fun, friendly competition! Please sign up, seating is limited. $5.

CHARLIE KUENZEL AND PIZZA

Date To Be Determined

Charlie is a native Saratogian who spent decades as a science educator in our city schools. Today, he is President of the Saratoga History Museum and

spends his free time educating and entertaining thousands of people with fascinating stories about the Spa City’s history. Come to listen to Charlie and nosh on pizza. $10. Please sign up.

DINE IN DINNER

Tuesday, January 24 • 5:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Aetna. $12 per dinner. Don’t miss our monthly dinner. Menu to be determined.

PAL’S MEALS TO GO

$12 per dinner. Prepared meals you just have to heat up. Pick up any time Monday or Tuesday between 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Order by Noon the Friday before.

Tuesday, Jan. 17: Chicken in a light Wine Sauce, Sun Dried Tomatoes, Fresh Spinach, served over Rice

Monday, Jan. 23 & Tuesday Jan. 24: Chicken

Marsala with Mashed Potato

Monday, Jan. 30 & Tuesday Jan. 31: Eggplant

Parmigiana with Ziti

VOLUNTEER FAIR

Sponsored by Highmark Northeastern New York

Tuesday, January 17 • 1-3 p.m.

Have a little free time? Looking to give back? Come learn more about volunteer opportunities at the Saratoga Senior Center. From in-house events and activities to Community Connections, volunteering out in the community, we have something for everyone! Our Volunteer Coordinator will talk about opportunities and then you can chat with current volunteers in specific areas to learn more. Please join us! Refreshments served.

The benefits of volunteering:

• Provides you with a sense of purpose

• Provides a sense of community

• Helps you meet new friend

• Helps the seniors and the Center

What’s New This Month!

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES

facilitated by Gwen Rowland, Alzheimer’s Association

Friday, January 13 • 1 p.m.

Communication is more than just talking and listening – it’s also about sending and receiving messages through attitude, tone of voice, facial expressions and body language. As people with Alzheimer’s disease and other de- mentias progress in their journey and the ability to use words is lost, families need new ways to connect. Join us to explore how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s. Please sign up.

FUNDING OPTIONS FOR LONG TERM CARE

facilitated by Renee Birnbauam and Melonie Pratt of Choice Connections

Thursday, January 19 • 10:30 a.m.

Please sign up. What are some of the funding options available to help pay for care? How do I pay for home care? Assisted liv- ing? Nursing home care? What are the options? What do they offer? What is the criteria to become eligible?

ZENTANGLE ART PROGRAM facilitated by Katie Long

Thursday, January 19 • 1 p.m.

$5 materials fee. Design florals and bouquets. Zentangle is an American method for drawing, which promotes concentration and creativity and increases personal well-being. Please sign up.

BEADING WORKSHOP facilitated by Jerry Matthews

Thursday, January 26 • 1:30 p.m.

$10 materials fee. Whether you are just beginning or an experienced beader, join Jerry to create beautiful and one of a kind jewelry. Please sign up, seating is limited.

IMPROV GAMES FOR GROWN-UPS

facilitated by Susie Kane-Kettlewell and Paula Jo Smith

Tuesdays • 10 a.m. -12 p.m.

Began January 10; runs for 4 weeks. First session free. Let’s Have Fun Together! Join two Silly Senior Ladies, experienced with playing Improv, who will introduce you to many Improv games for grownups. What are Improv games, you ask? Remember when you played pretend games with your friends when you were kids? Do you enjoy watching your Grandkids play? Do YOU want to FEEL like a kid again?

Guidelines For Safe Outdoor Hiking!

Hiking offers both physical and mental benefits.

What is so enticing about hiking? Perhaps it is the sense of freedom while heading toward a wondrous destination; or soaking in the vast beauty of nature as you do something healthy and fulfilling; or maybe it is inhaling clean, fresh air while shedding stress and toxic buildup from days working and living indoors.

When hiking, you might take a turn and suddenly gaze upon the sun shining through the leaves of a forest, a lake hidden in the snowcapped mountains or the multitude of colors displayed along a desert of rock and sand. Hiking offers refreshing peace and stillness amidst an almost constant rush of discoveries, large and small.

The benefits of hiking are numerous: It lowers the risk of heart disease, boosts bone density, builds muscle and core strength, improves balance, helps to control weight and improves mood. It has even been found to improve learning, cognition, memory and creativity.

In the age of COVID-19, a hike also offers a safe, outdoor activity that you can do while distancing with family or friends. Take the time to prepare and pack well to avoid injuries and other unexpected problems. If you are new to hiking, here are a few tips to help you get you started:

TIPS FOR A

PRODUCTIVE HIKE

• Beginners should start on a flat surface. Gradually increase inclines with hills and then proceed to mountains. Ascending and descending inclines burns more calories and improves balance and core strength.

• Add some weight to your backpack, such as plenty of water, some healthy snacks and an emergency kit. The added weight improves back muscle strength and burns more calories.

• When packing your backpack, keep soft items closer to the part of the backpack that touches your back and put harder items to the outside. Some hikers even wrap hard items in T- shirts to reduce any potential discomfort. Straps should be fitted properly, and the top of the backpack should NOT separate from your body to hang back—it should be flush with your back. Consider a chest strap for heavier loads, which will keep the backpack on your shoulders and prevent it from sliding to the side. You want the backpack to sit up high and not rest down around the waist because of loose shoulder straps.

• When hiking during the winter putting on microspikes or mini crampons over your shoes or boots will help with traction if you encounter some icy areas on your trail. We highly recommend Kahtoola Microspikes.

• For higher elevations, consume more carbohydrate-dense foods and fewer fats and proteins. Carbohydrates require less oxygen for energy production. At higher elevations it is important to conserve as much oxygen as possible.

• Plan ahead. Know what the terrain and weather will be like. Wear comfortable clothes

and supportive shoes with traction depending on the terrain and weather. Using hiking poles on inclines is a fantastic way to exercise the upper body while reducing strain on the hip and knee joints and muscles.

LOCAL TRAILS THAT WE RECOMMEND

Saratoga County has an abundance of beautiful hiking trails. Below are some of our favorites. If you are feeling more

adventurous, download the All Trails app where users can search for trails - filtering by difficulty level and length.

• Saratoga Spa State Park (adjacent to our office) and a staff favorite!

• Zim Smith Trail

• Skidmore North Woods and Skidmore Campus

• Spring Run Trail

• Wilton Wildlife Preserve

• Bog Meadow Trail

• Moreau State Park

• Saratoga National Historic Park

In short, if you want to improve your physical and mental health while having fun, just take a hike!

Dr. Matt Smith has been a Chiropractor in Saratoga Springs for 36 years. He and his daughter Dr. Kevy Smith Minogue can be reached at 518-587-2064 or at MySaratogaChiropractor.com.

by Dr. Matt Smith, DC for Saratoga TODAY

Tips to Manage Stress & Anxiety for a Happy Healthier You

by Franesa Pyle for Saratoga TODAY

Scientific research has shown that stress has a negative impact on the brain, nerves, muscles, joints, heart, digestive and reproductive system and can lead to a variety of physiological disorders and diseases in the body. Whether you are a parent, a student or a career professional, chances are you’ve encountered stress. When we’re stressed out, over-extended and exhausted we only half show up for our lives. We are built to withstand some stress, but chronic stress can be damaging not only to ourselves, but in other aspects of our lives, our families and our careers.

While you’re settling into your New Year’s resolutions, make yourself a priority in 2023, by following these five tips for a healthier, happier you.

#1: BE GENTLE WITH YOURSELF

Try not to overload yourself with unreasonable goals. While

life will always give us some sort of stress, you can always make conscious decisions to treat yourself with kindness. When you are faced with situations or experiences that may cause you stress – try to avoid worrying or burdening yourself with thoughts that cause unnecessary pressure, instead shape the quality of your thoughts towards positive thinking. When life becomes hectic, try making an itemized list and prioritize tasks by importance. Decide which items on your list don’t absolutely need to be done today, or even, at all. Can some items be reprioritized for a later date, delegated to coworkers, friends or your family? Take a step back and look at where you can ask for help, or how you may simply rethink how to accomplish your tasks.

• Get to bed earlier. The later we go to bed, the less restful your sleep will be. For the deepest, most restful sleep, try hitting the pillow before 11:00 p.m.

• Avoid screen time, or any digital distractions, as a rule of thumb at least one hour before bed. Artificial lights (especially from cell phones, iPads and computers) keeps the mind alert, confuses the brain, affects our circadian rhythm, and suppresses our body’s natural melatonin secretion, a hormone that promotes deep, restorative sleep. Too much screen time affects the REM sleep stage, the sleep cycle tied to your creative and problem-solving skills and memory retrieval. Create healthy boundaries from digital distractions before bed for a restful night of sleep.

sound of your own breath, has an amazing and immediate effect on the way we feel.

#2:

MAKE SURE YOU GET ENOUGH REST

We all know the benefits of a good night’s sleep. When we are exhausted, stress and anxiety levels tend to rise. Conversely, when we are well rested, we react and handle stressful situations effectively. Having trouble sleeping?

Try these sleep hygiene tips to produce a restful night of sleep:

• Create a ritual before bed each night that will give your body cues that it is time to unwind from the day. Prepare a cup of tea at a certain time. Read a chapter in a book while diffusing your favorite custom mix of essential oils. Take a bath. Practice a nighttime skin care ritual. Listen to a meditation app before going to sleep.

#3: EAT A DIET RICH IN FRUITS & VEGETABLES

When we are well-nourished with wholesome foods we feel better, we are less stressed, we feel stronger, and we have more consistent energy. In addition, those who are well-fed with nutritious balanced food are less likely to overindulge in sugar and alcohol, and this is an important factor when we are trying to de-stress. Refined sugars found in food as well as in alcohol lead to a rapid spike in our blood sugar levels. In turn, blood sugar levels takes a precipitous nose-dive, leaving us feeling jittery and anxious, exhausted and drained.

#4: GET MOVING

Regular exercise boosts our strength, energy and mood.

Research shows that people who regularly exercise, and then stop, within a week, report that they feel depressed and fatigued. To start incorporating movement into your life right away, try parking in a spot that is the absolute furthest from the store, take the stairs rather than the elevator, and dedicate a part of your lunch break to a quick walk. When you’re ready to try incorporating more vigorous exercise, try a class that looks interesting to you –if you don’t like running, try a spin class. If you used to love to dance but don’t go out much anymore, try a Zumba class. Your body will thank you, and your stress level will be reduced.

#5: TAKE EXTRA DOWN TIME TO FOCUS ON YOUR SELF CARE

If we really want to accomplish things efficiently and use our time to its best advantage, we must take time to restore, replenish and renew. Even just five minutes of closing your eyes, sitting quietly, taking slow deep breaths, while concentrating only on the

We often tend to forget our self care, telling ourselves that we don’t have enough time to properly nurture ourselves or that self care is a luxury that we can’t afford. Whether it be massage, acupuncture, trips to the chiropractor, bettering our sleep hygiene, taking time to simply breathe or creating a yoga practice, trust that when you take care of yourself, the problems you were so worried about become less of a burden.

Franesa Pyle is the owner and founder of Botanicals Spa, a nature-inspired wellness spa located in Saratoga Springs. She is the creator behind organic skin care brands; Spa City Organics and Apothic Timeless Skincare. Ms. Pyle lives in Saratoga Springs with her husband Dr. Bert W. Pyle, III, and their two children. She loves all things health and self care related, spending time in nature, gardening, hobby farming, and DIY crafting.

The Way Life Is Now

“MOTHERING BOYS”

while I tried to rest. I don’t want to remind little people to do their homework, and I don’t want to deal with the unending laundry and dishes.

a pacifier every second of the day and night. The truth of “long days and short years” never ceases to amaze me.

by Katherine Morna Towne for Saratoga TODAY

Sometimes I would read things by older mothers when I was a younger mother with all tiny babies, things about how much easier things were for them now that their kids were older, and even though I sometimes allowed myself to imagine the days when I would be writing things like that, mostly I tried to keep a disinterested distance so as not to fall into a pit of despair (despite the fact that I had dreamed about and hoped for those baby days my whole life, and miss them terribly now that they’re gone!). Those years were just a lot of “one foot in front of the other and keep moving forward.” It was such good work! Taking care of babies — taking care of anyone who can’t take care of themselves — is such good work. Many times I reminded myself that loving others in this way makes a real difference in the world, truly makes the world a better place, which is what we all want, right? But oh man. It is hard.

I think the very hardest days for me were when I wasn’t feeling well, whether because of pregnancy or illness. I’ve never been good at dealing with discomfort or pain; all I want to do is lay down and sleep until I feel better. I certainly do not want to get myself up to make food for others, or deal with potty issues, or change diapers. I definitely do not want to break up squabbles or deal with monitoring timeouts or feel endlessly guilty because I kept the TV on for the kids all day

I would count the seconds until my husband got home from work and could take over the majority of everything, but even then, I have so many memories of feeling absolutely rotten but still needing to nurse the baby, or of having to put the boy to bed who wouldn’t go peacefully for anyone but me. I have vivid memories of feeling so sore from feverish achiness but still I had babies and little boys draped on me, rubbing themselves all over my sensitive skin. (I will say that I was always grateful my little guys never seemed to care one bit if I wasn’t showered and if my clothes were dirty, they just wanted to be close to me.)

I’m actually writing this as I’m getting over a bug, which is probably why these kinds of memories are so fresh in my mind. This time, I’m the older mom writing about how, now that the kids are older, things are so much easier! Yesterday I could barely get out of bed, today I feel only a little better. But it’s been fine! Even my youngest can get himself something to eat and take himself to the bathroom, and he’s fantastic at playing contentedly with Legos for hours. It’s amazingly different from how it was even a year ago!

Last year at this time, my youngest was still in diapers and still using

There are other things that have struck me as part of this new “older mom” life recently that I actually wrote down in a notebook so I wouldn’t forget: how I don’t have to worry about waking the baby up with flushing the toilet at night, or how I can put older boys in charge and run upstairs to take a shower instead of waiting all day for my husband to come home, or run out on an errand without getting everybody into boots and winter coats to do so. I saw a mom in line at the Starbucks at Target the other day — she had a bunch of little ones strapped into her cart and something about the whole thing made me think she’d gotten the kids all out of the house and into Target just for the coffee, which sounds insane from my current perspective but it only took me a minute to remember being in that very spot and thinking, “A nice coffee is exactly what will perk up my day right now, and I’m willing to get everyone dressed and out of the house just for that.” Those “long days and short years”!

Of course, now that things are easier — now that I can take care of myself the way I’d like to — I have other things to deal with, like how the longer I lay in bed or on the couch, the sorer my body feels. Or how the more rest I get during the day, the less peaceful my night

will be. All of that is evidence to me that my ability to handle what I used to handle is greatly diminished — funny how that happens! I wouldn’t trade those earlier years for anything! But I’m

becoming more and more peaceful with life the way it is now.

Kate and her husband have seven sons ages 18, 16, 14, 12, 11, 8, and 4. Email her at kmtowne23@gmail.com.

Master Teachers Recognized by Ballston Spa Board of Education

Saratoga Board of Education Approves Hiring of Elementary School SROS

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Saratoga Springs City School District Board of Education voted to approve the hiring of two additional school resource officers for the district’s elementary schools at a meeting on Tuesday.

inconsistent and arbitrary.”

“I just think at this point, people really need to not only examine their bias, but admit it,” said Woytowich. “If you are antipolice, just say so. I’m done with the dance.”

community feedback and not opinions of fellow board members.

BALLSTON SPA —

Several teachers from the Ballston Spa Central School District received praise and recognition from the Ballston Spa CSD Board of Education and school administrators after being selected for the New York State Master Teacher Program.

The program is offered by the NYS Education Department to the highest performing science, technology, engineering and math teachers (STEM).

Recognized for being inducted this fall were Ballston Spa Middle School teachers Colin Klepetar and Christina Bisceglia, as well as previously selected Middle School instructor Jeff Gargano. These teachers join the ranks of other previously selected Master Teachers from Ballston Spa including John Balet, Katie Calhoun, Shannon Hansen, Judith Selig, Ankie Meuwissen, Matt Glogowski, Katie Miller and Andrew Ferrone.

“We are proud of these instructors as well as our other NYS Master Teacher recipients for their dedication and commitment to continuously improving their skills as a teacher and learner,” said Ballston Spa Central School District Interim Superintendent Dr. Gianleo Duca. “It is important for us to help create environments where teachers are comfortable and confident in exploring ways to continuously improve their craft. Supporting the NYS Master Teacher program is one way we can do this.”

The program creates a network of teachers and offers a number of professional development experiences to deepen teachers’ understanding of STEM content and the best methods of teaching their students in their particular communities. One of the duties of a Master Teacher is to share what they learn with colleagues at Ballston Spa, so they can enrich the learning of as many students as possible.

The motion passed by a 5-4 vote of the board trustees. One officer will be hired for the district elementary schools within Saratoga Springs city limits, with the other hired for elementary schools outside of the city limits.

The district will pay $74,285 for the officer at schools within the city, which will be pro-rated from the officer’s start date of Jan. 30 to the end of the contract, according to the addendum. The district will pay a cost of $75,419.86 to the officer assigned to elementary schools outside of the city limits, which will be pro-rated from a Feb. 1 start date.

The hiring of two additional SROs was recommended following a safety audit conducted by the New York Schools Insurance Reciprocal. The district currently employs two SROs, one at the high school and one at the middle school campuses.

Several of the board members who ultimately voted against the motion raised concerns about hiring additional SROs outside of the district’s typical budget cycle.

“At this time, I feel like going outside the budget process does not allow trustees to fully and critically look at all of our district needs,” said Trustee Anjeanette Emeka. “We heard about these needs at every presentation so far this year. I also feel it disrespects the hard work we ask of all the other departments and buildings to identify needs and evaluate current initiatives and programs and student needs for consideration in the coming year’s budget.”

Trustee John Brueggeman agreed with Emeka, saying safety is “a multifaceted issue.”

The budgetary concerns were met with pushback from other board members, with Trustee Connie Woytowich saying the practices of the board “are

Board president Tony Krackeler said the suggestion that some board members are antipolice “smacks of an appalling lack of regard” for trustees.

“I resent any implication that anyone who wants to vote in any way on this, whether it’s yes or no now or yes or no in three months, is anti-police,” said Krackeler, who stated he feels it’s possible for board members to agree with the NYSIR recommendation while also feeling the positions should be considered along with the district’s budget.

Fellow Trustee Amanda Ellithorpe said she believes the “goalposts change to fit certain board members’ agendas.”

“Now you’re upset that the recommendation you thought you’d get isn’t what you received, so you shift the goalposts again. The public should know that the overwhelming feedback we have received from our administration, parents, and community members is in support of SROs,” Ellithorpe said. “The majority of the feedback we have received against them appears to be based in hatred of law enforcement. Let’s stop kicking the can down the road and vote.”

This was met with a response from both Brueggeman and Emeka, with Brueggeman saying he is “not outsourcing” his judgment.

“I want to say a couple things that have been misunderstood. One thing is, I strongly supported putting off this conversation until NYSIR came,” said Brueggeman. “I never said when NYSIR speaks, I’m going to do everything they say immediately after they say it.”

“This is absolutely, 100 percent not a dance to me,” said Emeka, who also said she was “appalled” to be referred to as anti-police.

Ellithorpe later clarified her statement, saying the anti-police comments were in reference to

“My comments about folks that seemed to be anti-police were community member feedback. It had nothing to do with anyone at this table,” Ellithorpe said. “So, apologies if that’s what you heard. That’s not what I was trying to say.”

Krackeler, Brueggeman, Emeka, and Trustee Natalya Lahktakia voted against the hirings, with the other five board members voting in favor.

Members of the community voiced their opinions during the public comment sessions, with some residents voicing their frustration and others praising the board following the decision.

Erin Leary, who said she has two children attending Lake Avenue Elementary School, spoke prior to the board’s vote. Leary said that the arguments in support of SROs has been “only a tremendous appeal to emotion.” She also raised concerns about the impact the hirings may have on the district’s budget.

“This year, the high school un-enrolled students in BOCES programs because there was an over-enrollment that was not in the budget,” said Leary. “There is no social worker at Caroline Street (Elementary School), even though more than 30% of their students qualify for free or reduced lunch. Proponents of SROs have said, ‘We can have both SROs and mental health.’ But when submitted outside of the budget cycle and on its own, this is not doing both.”

Resident Mark Crockett also spoke, and said he feels every district building should have at least one SRO.

“I believe this is a move in the right direction, but I believe all buildings should have at least one SRO,” said Crockett, who also spoke at the later public comment session, thanking the board for their vote.

The Saratoga Springs City School District Board of Education will next meet on Jan. 26 at Saratoga Springs High School, according to the district website.

Ballston Spa Middle School Teachers Colin Klepetar, Christina Bisceglia, and Jeff Gargano (not pictured) were recognized by the Ballston Spa Board of Education for their induction to the New York State Master Teacher Program. Pictured from left are Interim Superintendent Dr. Gianleo Duca, Shannon Hansen, Katie Calhoun, Klepetar, Bisceglia and BOE President Jason Fernau. Photo provided.

Lake Avenue ‘Dog Therapy’ Helping Students Improve Reading Abilities

by Dylan McGlynn Saratoga TODAY

BSCSD Offering a Parent Night Focused on Mental Health

SARATOGA

SPRINGS

— It isn’t always easy to teach children to read. However, when there’s a dog in the equation, things can change rather quickly.

Lynn O’Rourke, the K-2 reading teacher at Lake Avenue Elementary School, has been offering “dog therapy” to secondgrade students at the school for over 20 years. The program was forced to undergo a lengthy pause due to COVID-19, but O’Rourke said they are preparing to bring dogs back into the classroom.

“I just got approval for a couple dog handlers in December, right before break,” said O’Rourke. “I’m hoping by next week we can get all the permission slips in and have all the dogs start visiting the school.”

Students visit O’Rourke’s classroom and read to a therapy dog, which she said helps the students get enthusiastic about reading.

“The dogs come into my room, and then a group of students will come to my room, and they each take turns reading to the dog,” O’Rourke said. “They have time to ask questions about the dog to the dog handler.”

Students typically read to the dog for about 15 minutes and are provided a reading certificate with an image of the dog.

“It’s a great program just for kids to feel good about their reading, and create confidence,” said O’Rourke.

O’Rourke has been running the program for 23 years, she said, noting the program has helped increase reading participation and has “taken the stigma off” her classroom.

“Because students kind of think, ‘Well, if you have to go to Mrs. O’Rourke’s room, then you have to get help with reading’,” she

said. “But now they all associate the dog with my room, so everybody wants to come to my room.”

O’Rourke said that some of her students have told her that reading to the dogs is “the best part of second grade.”

“And the kids help each other, which is nice,” said O’Rourke. “The adult doesn’t necessarily intervene with corrections, the kids help each other. It builds a nice little camaraderie with the kids.”

She also said that being in a small group “reduces stress and anxiety for the students,” offering them a comfortable place to improve their reading abilities.

Prior to COVID, O’Rourke said she had roughly eight to ten therapy dogs that would rotate in her classroom daily.

“I literally had a dog every single day in my classroom,” O’Rourke said. “Students were able to come in and read with the dogs, and they love the different certificates with the different dogs.”

Now, over two years since the last time a dog entered her room, O’Rourke is “starting fresh.”

“I don’t have any of my old dog handlers for various reasons,” said O’Rourke. “Right now, I have three dogs that have gone through the approval process. I’m always just looking for a few more if possible.”

In order for a dog to join the classroom, it must be a certified therapy dog through Therapy Dogs International and has to be approved by the Saratoga Springs City School District. Anyone interested must fill out a pair of forms, which are in turn sent to the district superintendent to be approved. To access these forms, email O’Rourke at l_orourke@saratogaschools.org.

“There’s a lot of positive impacts with the program, and it’s been pretty good over the last 20 years,” O’Rourke said.

BALLSTON SPA —

The Ballston Spa Central School District is hosting an evening program for parents focused on a personal and open discussion about depression, mental illness, and suicide; as well as how to speak about it with the youth in our school community.

The “No One Walks Alone” program will be presented by Donna Thomas and Dr. Jaime Arnoff of James’ Warriors.

Parents and interested adults are invited to attend the program on Jan. 25 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

in the Ballston Spa High School Library. Light refreshments will be provided and childcare for schoolage children is available (please arrive at 6:15 p.m. to register children for care in the BSHS cafeteria). BSHS students will be providing several activities for the children. The event is scheduled to be live-streamed on the BSCSD YouTube Channel. For additional information, please visit James’ Warriors or contact Ballston Spa CSD K-12 Health Education Instructional Teacher Leader Lisa Perrone at lperrone@bscsd.org.

File photo.

Provided by Ballston Spa Central School District.

Food

Satisfying Soups from Scratch

WHATEVER SOUP

SATURDAYS

9:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M. WILTON MALL | FOOD COURT

by Julia Howard for Saratoga TODAY

The cold winter months call for hot, comforting foods, so just in time for National Soup Month, the Saratoga Farmers’ Market is showing some love for soup. There are infinite combinations of stocks, vegetables, and proteins that, when simmered together, create flavorful and lively liquids that make us feel nourished and satisfied.

Making soup from scratch can be a simple process with satisfying results. While there are culinary rules to follow for specific recipes, soups allow creativity in the kitchen and when shopping for ingredients. We recommend strolling through the farmers’ market for fresh, in-season ingredients.

First, let’s talk about aromatics – combinations of vegetables, herbs, and meats that are the foundation of your soup. Some options are onions, carrots, leeks, mushrooms, garlic, sweet potatoes, and squash. Vendors’ tables have even more stored vegetables. Chicken breast, veal, goat, and beef stew meat are excellent options for protein. Let your palette guide you and build a soup with what you love.

Sautée aromatics in fat like olive oil, coconut oil, or butter. If beef, goat, or veal are on your ingredients list, brown this first over medium-high heat and set aside. You may cook vegetables and herbs together, adding minced garlic once the vegetables soften. If using chicken breast, cook it along with the vegetables. Embrace the mouthwatering smells during this process.

Next, add stock and water and perhaps some diced hydroponic tomatoes. Bone broth is available at the farmers’ market or use any broth of your choice. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20-25

minutes. The vegetables should be tender, and the meat, if used, should be thoroughly cooked. At this point, you can adjust the taste with salt and pepper. How about some health-building greens like kale, chard, or Chinese cabbage? Greens pack flavor and nutrients into homemade soups and should be added in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to soften but maintain their texture.

Building a soup can be fulfilling using what’s available from local farms at the farmers’ market. Perhaps you have something specific in mind, like your mom’s chicken noodle soup or a borscht recipe on your favorite food blog – visit the farmers’ market for all your soup-making needs.

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market is open on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in the Wilton Mall Food Court. Find us online at www. saratogafarmersmarket.org, where you can sign up for our weekly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @SaratogaFarmersMarket.

YIELDS: 6-8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

*Ingredients currently available at the farmers’ market

• 4 Tablespoons of olive oil

• 2 medium onions*, sliced

• 3 garlic cloves*, sliced

• 6 to 8 cups diced vegetables*

• 1½ pounds raw boneless chicken

• 6 to 8 cups of chicken stock

• Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS :

1. Set a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat and add 4 tablespoons oil. When the oil shimmers, add onions and garlic.

2. Reduce the heat to a medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are tender, about 8-10 minutes.

3. Place the chicken and vegetables in the pot. Add enough chicken stock to cover. Season with salt and pepper. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

4. Cook until the flavors have come together, and the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes more. Remove chicken from the soup once it’s cooked through, allow to cool enough to handle. Shred and return it to the soup.

5. Add more hot liquid if needed.

6. Serve hot.

NOTE: *Currently in season at the farmers’ market: cabbage, carrots, celeriac, collard greens, kale, kohlrabi, leeks, mushrooms, potatoes, rutabaga, sweet potatoes, turnips, winter squash, and more.

Shushan Valley Hydro Farms & Underwood’s Greenhouses.

Photo by Madison Jackson

Photos by Pattie Garrett unless noted.

Recipe by Samin Nosrat for New York Times Cooking, shared by My Saratoga Kitchen Table

Photo provided by SFMA

by John Reardon for Saratoga TODAY

“You’ll never get bored when you try something new”

Hello my Foodie Friends!

Happy New Year in 2023. Making New Years’ resolutions and resolving to change and improve yourself and your life is an almost unavoidable part of the transition to a new year. One definition of the word resolution is: “a promise to yourself that you will make a serious effort to do something that you should do.”

However, it is important to remember that the New Year isn’t meant to serve as a catalyst for sweeping character changes. It is a time for people to reflect on their past years’ behavior and promise to make positive lifestyle changes. For some people, that might mean to start cooking, period. For others, it might mean to stop eating out so much and get back into the kitchen. For still others, it might mean finally tackling that challenging recipe you’ve always meant to try but have never had the motivation or nerve.

Why should you cook? Cooking is good. Cooking is pure. Cooking is one of those human things you can do that will improve almost every aspect of your life, and there’s nothing quite like the feeling of having mastered some dish where you know you could make it blindfolded if you had to. Just about anything you concoct in a kitchen is going to be healthier for you than what you might order in a restaurant, even if it’s the cheesiest, most pepperoni-laden pizza you can dream up.

Consider using cast iron for the

Pinwheel

Steak Potpie

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1-1/4 pounds beef top sirloin steak, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 1 package (16 ounces) frozen vegetables for stew

INSTRUCTIONS

hearty winter dinner recipes you make this year. Cast iron has had a resurgence in demand. These pans are extremely versatile and can last a lifetime. Everything from frying eggs, cooking a stew and baking a pie can be done in a cast iron pan. With a little care, these pans can become a hand-me-down family heirloom. Owning one can open up a whole new world of cooking, and the flavor that a cast iron pan can add to food is amazing.

In order to be successful when using cast iron, you have to know how to care for it, basically what to do and what not to do to your pans. If you treat them right, they will be so easy to cook with and will quickly become your go-to pan. First, season your pan. Seasoning is basically oiling the pan to give it a nonstick surface and prevent rusting. Even though most pans are sold “preseasoned,” you’ll still want to season it before its first use. Give your new pan a good rinse with plain old water and then heat it on the stove over medium heat. Once the pan is warm, add a small amount of oil. Using a cloth,

work the oil all around the inside bottom and sides of the pan. Give it a good coat, about a teaspoon for a 10-12 inch skillet, but not so much that there is standing oil in the pan. Then let it cool to room temp. You’ll want to repeat this process a few more times until the surface is glossy, but not sticky. and if needed, scrub lightly. A properly seasoned pan is naturally nonstick; however, if there is stuff stuck to the pan, you can scrape it and scrub with a hard bristle brush. After washing or scrubbing if necessary, make sure to fully towel dry your pan to prevent rusting.

Our favorite and best-selling cast iron is Lodge. Lodge is preseasoned cast iron cookware so

• 2 tablespoons water

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 jar (12 ounces) mushroom or beef gravy

• 1 tube (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent rolls

1. Preheat oven to 375°. In a 10-in. cast-iron or other ovenproof skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches; remove from pan. Sprinkle with pepper; keep warm.

2. In same skillet, combine vegetables, water and thyme; stir in gravy. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until vegetables are thawed. Stir in beef; remove from heat.

3. Unroll crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles. Starting from the wide end of each triangle, roll up a third of the length and place over beef mixture with pointed ends toward the center.

4. Bake, uncovered, until golden brown, 16-18 minutes

Recipe Courtesy of Taste of Home at tasteofhome.com

they begin the seasoning process for you. Lodge provides the preseasoned cookware with no synthetic chemicals; just soybased vegetable oil. The more you use your cast iron, the better the seasoning becomes. Lodge is MADE IN THE USA and has been making cast iron cookware in South Pittsburg, Tennessee since 1896. With over 120 years of experience, their cast iron is known for its highquality design, lifetime durability, and cooking versatility and is FAMILY-OWNED.

For 2023, cook something new each week. Everyone wants to eat healthier in the New Year, but you should also try to eat more diverse

Office for the Aging Lunch Program

foods. After all, variety is the spice of life. This year, choose an easy dinner recipe you’ve never tried before at least once a week. Sing, dance, play music really loud, and have fun eating your very own creation. Stop by Compliments to the Chef, your Neighborhood Kitchen and Cutlery store located at 33 Railroad Place, for the cool tools to help make your cooking resolutions a reality. Remember my Foodie Friends; “Life Happens in the Kitchen.” Wishing all a Happy New Year for 2023,

Take Care, John & Paula

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This Week’s Events: JAN. 13-19

FRIDAY, JANUARY 13

Fish Fry Fridays

Fish Creek Rod and Gun Club, 123 NY-32, Victory Mills | 4 – 7 p.m. Friday Night Fish Fry will be back for 2023. It will run through April

7. Various menu items are available from fried fish to chicken nuggets with French fries, Cole slaw and chowder also available. For more information call 518-695-3917.

The 8th Annual Dr. King Challenge: More Music

Less Violence ��

Holiday Inn, 323 Broadway, Saratoga Springs | 5:30 p.m. Hosted and curated by Capital Region’s DJ Hollyw8d, will feature several performing artists, live music, and dancing. Reception with light fare and cash bar, fun art projects, photo booth. Family friendly. Free. Donation appreciated.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 14

Defensive Driving Class

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Save 10% on your base auto insurance for the next three years and receive up to 4 points off your driving record according to NYS Department of Motor Vehicle guidelines. Fee: $35 per person. Bring a friend fee is $30 each. Portion of fee goes to Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church. Registration is required and can be made by calling Ray Frankoski at 518-286-3788. A mask is required if you are not vaccinated. Class size is limit.

How the Negro Got His Song ��

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs

10:30 a.m. | Join storyteller Jae Gayle for this family-friendly interactive performance and workshop based on an AfricanAmerican folktale. Free. For more information, MLKSaratoga@ gmail.com MLKSaratoga.org.

Free Lunch

The Malta Ridge United Methodist Church, 729 Malta Ave. Ext., Malta Ridge | 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. A soup and sandwich lunch will be served at no charge. All are welcome. For additional information or directions please call the Church at 518-581-0210.

Cat and Dog Adoption Clinic ��

H.O.P.E. Adoption Center, “Wilton Mall, 3065 Route 50, Saratoga Springs |11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Come meet the many adoptable pets of H.O.P.E. You can start the adoption process today by filling out an adoption application online at hopeanimalrescue.org/forms.

Restorative Justice in Schools ��

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs

12:30 p.m. | Promoting Dignity and Justice for Everyone. Presentation and panel discussion, with educators and students from South Glens Falls District about their school-based restorative practices. Free. For more information, MLKSaratoga@ gmail.com MLKSaratoga.org.

Erasing Spaces & Faces ��

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs

3 p.m. | The Legacy of Urban Renewal in Saratoga Springs. Join CREATE Community Art Studios for the unveiling of their multi-media exhibition, and a presentation and panel discussion with Kwame Anderson, Jen Wojtowicz, Dio Kauffman and Joy King. Free. For more information, MLKSaratoga@gmail.com MLKSaratoga.org.

Greatest Love of All ��

The Pines @ Saratoga Performing Arts Center, 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs | 6 p.m. The Roots and Revolution of Black Women in Pop. Yaddo artist, award-winning journalist and author of Shine Bright: a Very Personal History of Black Women in Pop, Danyel Smith

will be in conversation with Skidmore’s Dr. Emmanuel Balogun and Dr. Tammy Owens, with a special performance by artist/poet D. Colin., free, reservations required. For more information , MLKSaratoga@ gmail.com MLKSaratoga.org.

Xanadu The Musical

615 Maple Ave., Suite 3, Saratoga Springs | 7:30 p.m. Spa City Theatre presents Xanadu

The Musical. Book by Douglas Carter Beane and Music and Lyrics by Jeff Lynne and John Farrar. Shows will be on January 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and January 15 at 2 p.m. Tickets: Adult $18, Students and Seniors $12, Age 10 and under $5. www.onthestage.tickets/show/ Saratoga-Childrens-Theatre

SUNDAY, JANUARY 15

All You Can Eat Breakfast �� Gansevoort Volunteer Fire Department, 1870 State Route 32N, Gansevoort | 8 – 11 a.m. Menu includes eggs cooked to order, omelets, pancakes, hash, French toast, home fries, biscuits and sausage gravy, orange juice, milk and coffee. Donations: $12 adults, $11 Seniors 55+, Military, and First Responders, $8 children ages 6 – 12, Kids under six free.

Music Programs with Nikara Warren Trio ��

Caffe Lena, 47 Phila St., Saratoga Springs | 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Celebrating Black excellence in music and featuring music from her triumphant debut album Black Wall Street. At 3 p.m. Little folks MLD Celebration with Nikara Warren Trio. This program is intended for families, introducing children to jazz as part of the story of America. At 6:30 p.m. Performance will begin with an interview with Nikara Warren before her ensemble brings her infectious compositional sense, post-modern patchwork of influences and cultural signposts, and her fearless musicality to the stage. Free, reservations suggested.

Saratoga History Happy Hour

The Real McCoy Beer Company, 28 Washington St., Ballston Spa | 6 p.m. Real Life Crime is the focus with Waterford Historian Russ VanDervoort and SCHC Director of Education Anne Clothier. These true crime stories prove that sometimes real life is a lot darker than fiction. This is an SCHC Member Event. The event will include questions and answers and an opportunity to participate in a trivia contest. Tickets are $15 and come with a craft beer or non-alcoholic beverage. Tickets are required. brooksidemuseum.org/2022/12/ saratoga-history-happy-hours/

MONDAY, JANUARY 16

National Day of Service ��

Saratoga Springs Public Library, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs 9:30 a.m. – Noon | In-person volunteer projects and actions in collaboration with a variety of community organizations. Projects for all ages include: C.R.E.A.T.E Community Studios to make kindness rocks; Mooncatcher Project to assemble sustainable menstrual pad kits; Waldorf School for story-reading and card making; Saratoga Free Fridge – donate food and grocery cards; Little Free Library at the Frederick All Lodge – donate books; Temple Sinai Take Note: donate children’s book and musical instruments drive; Youth Squared to make peace flags. Free, registration begins at 9:30 a.m.

Nature on the Move

Camp Saratoga North, Wilton Wildlife Preserve, 80 Scout Rd., Wilton | 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Come enjoy nature with others looking to get outside. This walk is geared towards gentle exercise and those with basic fitness levels. Ages 16+ only. Snowshoe rentals will be available 15 minutes prior to the program at $3/pair. Registration is required at least one business day in advance. To register, visit wiltonpreserve.org/education/ calendar or call 518-450-0321.

Songs are the Soul of a Movement ��

Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church, 175 Fifth Ave., Saratoga Springs | 2 p.m.

Donald Hyman will open with Freedom’s Highways, a tribute to singers who used their platform to

fight for civil rights alongside Dr. King. Jermaine Wells and the Ill Funk Ensemble will then perform historical and contemporary civil rights and protest songs inspiring all to join in. Joseph Bruchac, our city’s first poet laureate, will close. Free.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17

HYBRID: Funding Options for Long Term Care

Clifton Park Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Rd., Clifton Park 1 p.m. | What are the options for long term care? What do they cost and what are some of the funding options available to help pay for care? What does Assisted Living or Nursing Home Care offer and what is the criteria to become eligible? Presented by Choice Connections NY, a free Senior Housing Advisory Service in our community. Registration required. 518-371-8622. www.cphlibrary.org

Volunteer Fair

The Saratoga Senior Center, 5 Williams St., Saratoga Springs 1 – 3 p.m. | Interested volunteers are welcome to come to the Center and learn more. Our Volunteer Coordinator will speak about the various opportunities. Meet with current volunteers to learn more about specific areas. Volunteers are active at the Center, helping with events, computer assistance, mailings, van driving, and more. Community Connections volunteers who go out in the community. They help close the gaps in services that a senior might need to remain independent in their homes. For more information contact the Center at 518-584-1621.

Town of Greenfield Historical Society Meeting and Program

Greenfield Community Center, 25 Wilton Rd., Greenfield Center 7 p.m. | Program: The Pen is Mightier than the Sword: The Lasting Power of the Written Word. Patricia Nugent is a retired school administrator and adjunct communication professor who now writes to give voice to those who might otherwise be silenced. She’s been published in professional and literary journals, as well as in anthologies. She believes in using the power of “the pen” to change ourselves and our world, and will share with us how and why it makes a difference. Note: Bad Weather - If Saratoga Springs Schools are closed that day, we automatically cancel.

�� =family friendly

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18

Olde Saratoga Seniors Meeting

Town Hall, 35 Spring St., Schuylerville | Noon.

It will be a sandwich luncheon and Al and Cathy Bain will be our entertainment. Dessert will be provided. New members and guests are welcome. For more information, contact Pat Temple at 518-338-2329

Chicken and Sausage Riggies Dinner Take Out

Saratoga Wilton Elks, 1 Elks Lane, Saratoga Springs | 4:30 – 6 p.m. Take out only. Call Monday or Tuesday between 10 a.m. –Noon to place an order. 518-5842585. Menu: Chicken, sausage, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, spinach in a pink sauce of penne pasta, tossed salad, garlic toast. Dinner for 2 / $30. (Cash only).

Galway Public Library’s Board of Trustees Meeting

2112 East St, Galway | 6:30 p.m. The agenda and other documents will be available prior to the meeting on the library website: www.galwaypubliclibrary.org. The public is welcome to attend. More information at 518-882-6385.

NYS DEC film Uninvited: The Spread of Invasive Species

Galway Public Library, 2112 East St. Galway | 7 p.m. The Galway Woman’s Club hosts a viewing of the film. To attend this documentary about invasive species in NYS and learn how DEC and their partners are tackling them, please register with the library at 518-882-6385. More information is available at www.galwaypubliclibrary.org.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19

Books and Tea

Saratoga Springs Public Library, Susman Room, 49 Henry St., Saratoga Springs | 3:30 – 4:45 p.m. Books and Tea meets to discuss Zorrie by Laird Hunt. Books and Tea is an ongoing reading group that meets the third Thursday of each month. Copies of the book may be obtained in the Reading Group Choices collection or by placing holds on the online public catalog. Stop by at the Information Desk for any assistance. Come on down and join us for good conversations around books! Because space may be limited, please register in advance. BYOT

(Bring Your Own Tea)

Upcoming Events save the date -

The Art of Puppetry with Lita Carbone

Our future puppeteers will learn how to develop characters and explore how to make a puppet come to life for an audience. Two sessions: Ages 9-11 on January 21 from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Ages 12-18 on February 4 from 10:30 –11:30 a.m. $50 class fee includes materials required to make your own puppet. More information can be found on the website under Classes and Workshops, saratogachildrenstheatre.org/ classes-workshops.

The Saratoga Room

A Heritage Hunters of Saratoga County talk on January 21, by recently appointed Saratoga Room archivist, Michelle Isopo.

on 190 Excelsior Ave., in Saratoga Springs. On the menu for this epic fundraising event: one half woodfired smoked chicken with side of BBQ sauce, roasted potatoes, Cole slaw and cornbread. All for $16. Feed a family of four for $60 (save $4). Cash and checks only please, eat in, or take out. Pre-orders appreciated, but not necessary. Call the post at 518-584-9686 Wednesday – Sunday after 3 p.m. or text 518-796-4066. Open to the public. Post members come on out! Looking for new members.

An Afternoon with Town Historian Rick Reynolds

Join us for an informative and interactive presentation by the knowledgeable and always entertaining Town Historian Rick Reynolds as he tells us about the roles Our Lady of Grace, a Catholic Community, has played in the local community over its 100-year history. It will be held on Sunday, January 22, at 2 p.m. at Our Lady of Grace, located at 73 Midline Road, Ballston Lake. This event is part of a series celebrating the Parish Centennial. The public is invited to join the members of the parish for this event. Light refreshments will be served after the presentation. Cost: Free will donation. Contact Pat Parker at 518-441-2450 with questions.

Thymly Herb Garden Group Monthly Meeting

sometimes real life is a lot darker than fiction. This is an SCHC Member Event that will take place on January 26. The event will include questions and answers and an opportunity to participate in a trivia contest. Tickets are $15 and come with a craft beer or non-alcoholic beverage. Tickets are required brooksidemuseum. org/2022/12/saratoga-historyhappy-hours/. The program is at The Real McCoy Beer Company which is located at 28 Washington St., Ballston Spa.

Learn to Speedskate

Learn to speedskate with legendary Saratoga Winter Club! Four training sessions and one skate session with the club. Dates: January 26 and 31, February 2, 7 and 9. Times: 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. Learn basic speedskating techniques on and off ice. $50 individual fee or $90 per family of 2 covers instruction, skate rentals (if available) and US Speedskating required insurance (additional family members $15 each). Proper safety equipment must also be purchased ahead of time. Skaters must be able to stand on skates, move forward and stop. See flyer for more info! Email swc.skt.fst. brn.trn@gmail.com or call 518430-7600 to pre-register.

Experts Next Door

opportunities as well as a call for Chocolate Chef entries. Area restaurants, bakeries, and chefs are all welcome to compete to showcase their talents and tastes by preparing small, sample-sized chocolate offerings in 3 categories: Dessert (Sweet), Savory, and Chocolate Beverage. These treats will be judged by Chocolate-fest goers. While savoring chocolate treats, visitors will enjoy a variety of First Friday activities going on throughout the Village, including live music, artist demonstrations and special promotions just in time for Valentine’s Day. A complete list of events can be found at Ballston.org.

Saratoga Winterfest 5K Snowshoe Run/Walk

Isopo talks about how Saratoga Room houses the Local History Collection of the Saratoga Springs Public Library. Besides the usual items genealogists would anticipate finding there, such as shelves of city directories and microfilmed issues of 19th century Saratoga newspapers, the collection offers unexpected resources. Isopo will discuss these lesser-known items, such as the assortment of scrapbooks on the old Hawley Home for Children. The meeting is at the Town of Saratoga’s Town Hall, 12 Spring Street, on the corner of routes 29 and 4 in Schuylerville.

Chicken BBQ Fundraiser

Join us on January 22 from 1 – 5 p.m. at the VFW post 420 located

Monday, January 23 at 10 a.m. at the 4-H Training Center, located at 556 Middleline Rd, Ballston Spa. Our presenter will be David Waite. His presentation is titled, Exploring the Wilderness by Water and Trail. Dave is a nature and fine arts photographer and the images he creates express his personal creativity and unique view of nature. Following the presentation there will be refreshments, a meeting and an Herb of the Month talk by a member. Dues for the year to join the Thymly Herb Group is $20. New members are always welcome. Please RSVP with questions or to let us know you will be joining us. thymlyherbmail@gmail.com

Saratoga History

Happy Hour

Real Life Crime is the focus with Waterford Historian Russ VanDervoort and SCHC Director of Education Anne Clothier. These true crime stories prove that

The Saratoga County History Center (SCHC) announces a virtual presentation by Dr. Eliga Gould on the Global War for American Revolution. Dr. Gould will participate in the History Center’s popular virtual speaker series “Experts Next Door.” At 7 p.m. on January 31, Dr. Gould will explain the global war for American independence and the role played by the battles of Saratoga in 1777. This is a virtual program presented on Zoom. Dr. Eliga Gould is a Professor and Chair of the Department of History at the University of New Hampshire. The event, set to take place on Zoom, is open to the public. It’s free, donations are highly valued. To register, visit brooksidemuseum. networkforgood.com/ events/51224-end-21

Chocolate Fest

The Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association is excited to announce our 8th Ballston Spa Chocolate Fest, on Friday, February 3 from 4 -8 p.m. We are currently announcing sponsorship

To be held on Sunday, February 5 at 11 a.m. in the Saratoga Spa State Park. Winterfest will be held outdoors opposite the Administration Building. Bathrooms in Wired Coffee Shop. Camp Saratoga 8k Snowshoe Race will be held on Saturday, February 11 at the Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park at 10:30 a.m. May have an indoor facility for this one depending on COVID. It there is no snow, and is at all possible, we may have a trail race instead. Go to www.saratogastryders.org to download an application or link to online registration at www. runsignup.com. A limited supply of Dion Snowshoes will be available at a $5 rental charge. Email Laura Clark at laura@saratogastryders. org to reserve a pair or phone 518581-1278. For information about the entire Dion Snowshoe Series and for snow updates visit www. dionwmacsnowshoe.com

February Break Drama

Camp with Elyse Young

Town of Malta Parks and Recreation Department

announces February Break Drama

Camp for ages 10-15 will run Tuesday, February 21 through Friday, February 24 from10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The camp will be taught by Malta’s Artistic Director Elyse Young and will include acting skills, vocal techniques, theater games, crafts, rehearsals and performance of a short play. Camp and performance will take place at the Malta Community Center, One Bayberry Drive, Malta. For more information, go online to www.maltaparksrec.com or contact Town of Malta Parks and Recreation Department at 518-899-4411.

Figgs to Stage Show at Caffe Lena Friday in Honor of Josh Chambers

Entertainment & Arts

Saratoga Jewish Community Art Partners with The Braid for Remembrance of Things Present Feb. 5

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga Jewish Community Arts, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York and sponsorship of Temple Sinai in Saratoga Springs, have contracted with The Braid, formerly Jewish Women’s Theater, to bring a three-program sequence in 2023 to its SJCA series. Each of The Braid programs will be on Zoom.

The Braid, in its 14th season, empowers artists and audiences to feel pride in Jewish culture while

building community and connection between people of all backgrounds.

The first program takes place 7 p.m. Feb. 5; with The Braid is Remembrance of Things Present, true stories from the descendants of Holocaust survivors. The program will be followed by a Q &A session.

Remembrance of Things

Present will discover how the son and grandson of Tuvia Bielski contend with the legacy of a hero. Witness a daughter’s struggle as her father’s testimony to the Shoah

Project video archive reopens old wounds. Feel inspired as a daughter of a French Resistance fighter is called to her own life of activism.

To register and receive Zoom access to The Braid programming Remembrance of Things Present, email sjca.sjcf@gmail.com. Registration will be confirmed with an email, and you will be sent the access code two days before the program. Learn more at www. saratogasinai.org or visit www. saratogajewishculturalfestival.org.

Home Made Theater Holds Open Auditions for The Sound of Music

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

In February 2021, Saratoga Springs lost Josh Chambers. A Greenwich native and Skidmore College graduate, Chambers made a name for himself around Saratoga in the 1990s as a musician, playwright and director.

At 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, the Figgs will perform a show in tribute of Chambers at Caffe Lena.

The Figgs – led by Mike Gent (guitar, vocals), Pete Donnelly (bass, vocals), and Pete Hayes (drums, vocals) – originally formed in Saratoga Springs 35 years ago.

They signed with Imago in 1993, moved to Capitol in ‘95, and have since released a dozen more records on smaller labels or under the band’s own Stomper imprint.

They’ve served as Graham Parker’s band for multiple tours & records, toured as the backing band for Tommy Stinson (The Replacements), and performed with a who’s who of musical fare. In 2022, the band released their 16th LP, “Chemical Shake.”

Tickets are available via caffelena.org, and a live stream of the show at: caffelena.tv.

Home Made Theater announces open auditions for their June production of The “Sound of Music,” with music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, and book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse. This production will be directed by Dawn Oesch, with musical direction by Richard Cherry, and choreography by Diane Lachtrupp.

The auditions will be held on Sunday, Jan. 22 (children only) starting at 5:30, and Monday and Tuesday, Jan. 23 & 24 (adults, including Liesl and Rolf) starting at 6:30, at Home Made Theater’s headquarters at the Wilton Mall

(near JC Penney). Callbacks will be held on Thursday, Jan. 26 starting at 6:30 p.m.

The primary cast consists of five adult men, eight adult women, two boys, and four girls. There will be a small (4-6 person) ensemble. All ethnicities and gender identities are encouraged to attend.

This award winning, family friendly musical is based on the real-life story of the von Trapp Family singers, one of the world’s best-known concert groups in the era immediately preceding World War II. Maria is the tomboyish postulant at an Austrian abbey who becomes a governess

in the home of a widowed naval captain with seven children, and brings a new love of life and music into the home.

For the audition: adults (including those auditioning for Liesl and Rolf) please prepare 16 bars of a song from the show. Children will be taught part of “My Favorite Things” to perform. Readings will be provided. Bring a current photo (cannot be returned) and a resume. Be prepared to list all potential conflicts from the first rehearsal through closing (with the exception of Tech Week and performances, conflicts can be worked around if known about in advance).

The Egg Announces Concerts: Steve Morse, George Winston, Al Stewart

ALBANY — The Egg has announced that The Steve Morse Band (Feb. 23), George Winston (March 17) and Al Stewart (March 26) will perform as part of the 2023 concert series.

Steve Morse Band: Reunited and performing together for the first time in over 10 years, the Steve Morse Band - featuring the band’s namesake and Guitar Player Hall of Famer Steve Morse, songwriter and bandleader of The Dixie Dregs, member of super group Flying Colors, as well as former guitarist of Deep Purple and Kansas – along

with bassist Dave LaRue, and drummer Van Romaine. Feb. 23$59.50, $49.50, $39.50.

George Winston: A solo piano concert featuring selections from his seasonal favorites performed in his melodic folk style, as well as some New Orleans R&B, stride piano, and more. George Winston’s music is evocative, offering us all a chance to take a step back from our perpetually busy lives and let our minds adventurously wander. March 17 - $36.

Al Stewart with The Empty Pockets: Singer/songwriter Al

Stewart emerged as part of the British folk revival in the late 1960s and became an international star with his platinum selling songs “Time Passages” and “Year of The Cat” in the mid‘70s. He has released nearly 20 albums over the years and will be joined onstage by Chicago-based roots-rockers The Empty Pockets. March 26 - $39.50, $34.50.

Tickets are currently on sale online at www.theegg.org or by telephone at 518-473-1845, or in person at The Egg Box Office Monday–Friday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The Figgs return to Saratoga Springs Friday night for a special show in tribute of Josh Chambers. Photo: The Figgs on Facebook.

Tang Teaching Museum Free Public “Parallax” Tour Jan. 19

John Lydon New Release: A Love Letter to Wife of Nearly 5 Decades, Living with Alzheimer’s

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College welcomes visitors to explore the Museum and exhibitions through guided tours with curators and Tang Guides.

Curator’s Tours are given by exhibition organizers, who work closely with artists and can provide valuable insights. Tang Guide Tours are given by visitors’ services staff, including Skidmore College students, who are trained in various methods of

talking about art and interacting with visitors.

The first Curator Tour of the calendar year takes place at noon on Thursday, Jan. 19. Curator’s Tour of Parallax: Framing the Cosmos with Associate Curator Rebecca McNamara. Tours are scheduled to take place monthly.

All tours are free and open to the public. No reservations are required. For more information, contact the Visitors Services Desk at 518-580-8080, tang@skidmore. edu, or visit tang.skidmore.edu.

Celebrated Film Director to Stage Book Release Event at Northshire in March

by Thomas Dimopoulos Saratoga TODAY

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

John Sayles has directed more than 18 films – “Matewan,” and “Eight Men Out,” among them, written screenplays for iconic ‘80s horror movies “The Howling,” and “Alligator,” and directed a trio of Bruce Springsteen’s most famed music videos – for the songs “Born in the USA,” “Glory Days,” and “I’m on Fire.”

As an author, Sayles has written numerous novels and short stories since 1975.

“In a two-hour movie I don’t tell the audience here’s a character, okay, here’s another one, now see the world the way they see it. In a book you can do that,” Sayles explained, in an interview published by Creative Screenwriting in 2016.

Sayles will celebrate the release of his new book, “Jamie MacGillivray: A Renegade’s Journey,” with an appearance at Northshire Bookstore Saratoga in March.

“Jamie MacGillivray: A Renegade’s Journey,” will be published by Melville House (736 pages,

$32) in late February. The story is set in 18th Century Scotland and America and begins in the heat of a vicious war. At the Battle of Culloden, in Scotland in 1746, Jamie MacGillivray narrowly escapes a roadside execution only to be recaptured and sentenced to indentured servitude in colonial America “for the term of his natural life.”

Sayles is slated to celebrate the book’s release at Northshire Bookstore on Broadway in Saratoga Springs, in late March.

John Lydon and Public Image Ltd. (PiL) this week have announced the release on all digital platforms of “Hawaii” - a song depicted as a love letter to Lydon’s wife of nearly 5 decades, Nora, who is living with Alzheimer’s.

“It is dedicated to everyone going through tough times on the journey of life, with the person they care for the most,” Lydon said, in a statement. “It’s also a message of hope that ultimately love conquers all.”

The song captures Lydon reflecting on the couple’s lifetime well spent, and in particular, in their happiest moments together in Hawaii.

PIL was formed in 1978, following the implosion of the Sex Pistols, which Lydon fronted in his incarnation as Johnny Rotten.

PIL is currently comprised of John Lydon, Lu Edmonds (multi-instrumentalist, Guitars) Bruce Smith (Percussion, drums), and Scott Firth (Bass, multi-instrumentalist).

“Hawaii” was released via all digital platforms this week and will be released on limited edition 7” vinyl later this year.

The band has confirmed it

will take part in the competition to represent Ireland at the 67th annual Eurovision Song Contest at 9:30 p.m. GMT (4:30

p.m. N.Y. time) on Friday, Feb. 3 on Ireland’s The Late Late Show – which may be live streamed at: www.rte.ie/player/.

Writer, director John Sayles will celebrate the release of his new book “Jamie MacGillivray: A Renegade’s Journey,” in Saratoga Springs in March.

John Lydon and PIL release “Hawaii” this week, announce live streaming performance Feb. 3. Photo: Prime PR Group.

Installation view, Parallax: Framing the Cosmos, Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College through June 19, 2023.

Photo by Mindy McDaniel.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Purchasing Department of Saratoga County will receive sealed bids in person or electronically through the Empire State Purchasing System Website until 11:00 a.m. on the following dates at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud:

January 26, 2023 Diesel Fuel, specification 23-DF-1

January 26, 2023

#2 Fuel Oil and Kerosene, specification 23-FOK-1

Bid forms and instructions are available at the Purchasing Office, 50 W. High Street, Ballston Spa, NY between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (telephone - 518-8852210) or at the Empire State Purchasing Group website (www. empirestatebidsystem.com).

Saratoga County, through its Purchasing Department, reserves the right to reject parts of any or all bids.

JOHN T. WARMT, Director of Purchasing Saratoga County

01/13/2023, 116839

Notice of Formation of GRAV LABS LLC. Filed with SSNY on 01/08/2023. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail copy to: 900 Rock City Road TRLR 261, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful. 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10, 02/17/2023. 117035

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED

LIABILITY

COMPANY. NAME: Park Avenue Testa LLC (LLC). Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on January 5, 2023. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: Park Avenue Testa LLC, c/o Michael R. Testa, 110 Henry

Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10, 02/17/2023. 116928

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY (LLC). Name: Rusty Blue LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/31/2022. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: Rusty Blue LLC, 262 Scotch Bush Road, Burnt Hills, New York 12027. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act or activity for which a limited liability company may be formed under section 201 of the Limited Liability Company Law. 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10, 02/17/2023. 116862

Notice of formation of Saratoga Cannabis Advisors LLC.

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/22/2022 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: P.O. Box 294 Saratoga Springs NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10/2023. 116804

NOTICE OF FORMATION of Sportsmen Stables 8 LLC.

Articles of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 09/13/2022. Office located in Saratoga County. SSNY designated as Agent upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to 57 Winners Circle, Saratoga Sprs, NY 12866. Purpose is any lawful activity. 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10/2023. 116736

Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company (LLC)

LEGALS

MECHANICAL, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on December 12, 2022. Office Location: 57 Jones Road, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, County of Saratoga. Under section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law The secretary of state is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address within or without this state to which the secretary of state shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: 57 Jones Road, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. The purpose of the Company is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under the LLCL. 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10/2023. 116729

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: 62 Catherine, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 9/13/2022. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC c/o Michelle H. Wildgrube, Esq., Cioffi Slezak Wildgrube P.C., 1473 Erie Blvd., 1st Fl., Schenectady, NY 12305. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10/2023. 116719

NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION FORMATION OF A NEW YORK LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY PURSUANT TO NEW YORK LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY LAW

SECTION 206(c) The name of the limited liability company is Edition Golf, LLC. The date of filing of the articles of organization

with the Department of State was November 7, 2022. The county in New York in which the office of the company is located is Saratoga County, and the street address of the principal location is 198 Church Street, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the company upon whom process may be served, and the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the company served upon him or her to The LLC at the above street address. The business purpose of the company is to engage in any lawful purpose permitted under the laws of the State of New York. 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10/2023. 116713

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY. NAME: 123

Madison Ave LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/24/2022 Office location: Albany County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 17 Patroon Place, Albany, NY 12211.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose. 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10/2023. 116629

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY. NAME: SPA CITY

LEGACY LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/01/2022 Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been Designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 99 Walworth St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: For Any lawful purpose. 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03, 02/10/2023. 116636

Notice of formation of 58 South LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 12/15/2022. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 3035 Route 50 #1009, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03/2023. 116376

Notice of formation of C & S Prospect Management, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with New York State Dept. of State on 12/19/2022. The County within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is located in is Saratoga. The Secretary of State is designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. The address to which the Secretary of State shall mail process is to the limited liability company at Law Office of Douglas J Zins, 400 First Avenue Fl 1, Watervliet, NY 12189. Company is organized for any lawful purpose. 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03/2023. 106084

NOTICE OF FORMATION

OF

LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY (LLC). Name: JSJ Eats, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/27/2022. Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY may mail a copy of any process to: JSJ Eats, LLC, c/o Julee OCallaghan, 1354 Alton Road, Rockville Center, NY 11570. Purpose: for all legal purposes. 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03/2023. 115942

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF LEGAL PROCESS BY PUBLICATION pursuant to CPLR 316 (a): To: Donald Walter Roraback above-named person for an absolute Judgement of Divorce. STATE OF NEW YORK Index No: 20221822

SUMMONS WITH NOTICE TO the answer, or if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff within twenty (20) days after be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.

Dated: December 5th, 2022

Clarissa Marie Roraback, Plaintiff | 2833 Birchton Rd, Ballston Spa, N.Y. 12020 518-414-6771, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13/2023.

115936

Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC) Under Section 206 of The Limited Liability Company Law. The name of the LLC is RIGANO RESTORATIONS, LLC. The Articles of Organization were filed with the NY Secretary of State on December 15, 2022. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity. The office of the LLC is to be located in Saratoga County. The Secretary of State is designated as the agent of the LLC upon whom process against the LLC may be served. The address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC is 660 North Creek Road, Greenfield Center, New York 12833. 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03/2023. 115928

Notice of formation of Enduring Nutrition, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/13/2022 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 23 Van Tassel Lane, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27, 02/03/2023. 115912

MABEY’S PROPERTY HOLDINGS, LLC - NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. Articles of Organization filed in the Secretary of State of New York on November 29, 2022, Office

location: Saratoga County, Secretary of State of New York is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. Secretary of State may mail a copy of any process to the LLC to Ryan Blass, 9 Morris Lane, Clifton Park, New York 12065, who is the registered agent of the LLC. Latest date to dissolve – LLC is perpetual, Purpose: for all legal purposes.

12/16,12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27/2023. 115820

Notice of formation of 820 CS Burg LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 09/23/2022 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 55 Railroad Place Apt 305 Saratoga Springs NY 12866.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

12/16,12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27/2023. 115794

Notice of Organization of Limited Liability Company.

The name of the Limited Liability Company is: JKST, LLC (hereinafter referred to as the “Company”). The Articles of Organization of the Company were filed with the New York Secretary of State on October 27, 2022. The County within New York State in which the office of the Company is to be located is SARATOGA. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent upon whom process against the Company may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State shall mail process is: JKST, LLC, P.O. Box 1077, Clifton Park, NY 12065. The purpose of the business of the Company is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which limited liability companies may be organized under the New York Limited Liability Law.

12/16,12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27/2023. 115776

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: THE GIFT CONCIERGE, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on September 13, 2022. Office location: 13 Joshua Road, Saratoga Springs, County of Saratoga, New York. SSNY has

been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, c/o Anthony V. Cardona, Jr., Esq., Maguire Cardona, PC, 22 Clinton Avenue, Albany, New York 12207 for any lawful purpose.

12/16,12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20, 01/27/2023. 115769

Notice of formation of 1053 Brewing LLC. Articles of Org. filed with NY Secretary of State (NS) on May 06, 2014, office location: Saratoga County, NS is designated as agent upon whom process may be served, NS shall mail service of process (SOP) to 1053 Brewing LLC @ 381 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, purpose is any lawful purpose. 12/09, 12/16, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20/2023. 115741

Notice of formation of SVTP Consulting LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 10/13/2022 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 956 Mac Arthur Dr., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/09, 12/16, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20/2023. 115720

Notice of formation of Kelab Golds LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/15/2022 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: BCOGI, 16 Slayton Way Roxbury Ma 02119. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/09, 12/16, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20/2023. 115712

Notice of formation of SARA’s Books LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 11/30/2022 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: 638 Grooms Road, Clifton Park, NY 12065-5900. Purpose:

Any lawful purpose. 12/09, 12/16, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20/2023. 115704

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY. NAME: BLUE STAR PAINTING LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/01/2022

Office location: Saratoga County. SSNY has been Designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, PO BOX 453 Mechanicville, NY 12118.

Purpose: For Any lawful purpose. 12/09, 12/16, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20/2023. 115698

Notice of formation of Back to Basics Natural Health LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 08/30/22 Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to the LLC at: PO Box 2920, Malta, NY 12020.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/09, 12/16, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13, 01/20/2023. 115683

P3 MEYER ROAD, LLC

Notice of Formation of the above Limited Liability Company (“LLC”). Articles of Organization (DOM LLC) filed with the Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on November 7, 2022, Office location, County of Saratoga. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC

upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any such process served to: P3 MEYER ROAD, LLC, P.O. Box 1124, Clifton Park NY 12065. Purpose: Any lawful act. 12/02, 12/09, 12/16, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13/2023. 115656

Notice of Qualification of Frontier Risk Insurance Services LLC. Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York on, 10/18/2022. Office: Saratoga County. SSNY has been designated as the LLC’s agent upon whom process against it may be served. A copy of process should be mailed to: Harker & Associates, PLLC, 36 Long Alley, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 12/02, 12/09, 12/16, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13/2023. 115644

Notice of Organization of Limited Liability Company. The name of the limited liability company is LARUSSA GIFTS LLC (hereinafter referred to as the “Company”). The Articles of Organization of the Company were filed with the secretary of State on November 15, 2022. The office of the Company is located in Saratoga County. The Secretary of State has been designated as Agent upon whom process against the company may be served. The post office address to which the Secretary of State Shall mail process is c/o the Company, 493 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, New York 12831. 12/02, 12/09, 12/16, 12/23/2022, 01/06, 01/13/2023. 115635

HOME IMPROVEMENT

DOMINIC HOLLOW APARTMENTS

30 NEWLY CONSTRUCTED 1 & 2 BEDROOM AFFORDABLE APARTMENTS located at 11 Dominic Drive, Ballston Spa. Rents ranging from $658 - $928. Heat, hot water and central air conditioning included in rent. INCOME LIMITS & ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS APPLY. Maximum income limits ranging from $37,100 - $63,300 *minimum income limits also apply. Income limits subject to unit size, household size & set-aside requirements; please visit www.cgmrcompliance.com for details. To request an application by mail, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to DOMINIC HOLLOW APARTMENTS, PO Box 440, Wading River, NY 11792, call (631) 910-6200, or email dominichollow@cgmrcompliance.com. Visit www.NYHousingSearch.gov for additional information. Applicants who submit more than one application may be disqualified. Applications must be postmarked no later than January 30, 2023. Late applications will not be considered. A Public Lottery to be held at Saratoga Hilton on February 13, 2023 starting at 11am.

Para solicitar una solicitud por correo, envíe un sobre con estampilla y su dirección a DOMINIC HOLLOW APARTMENTS, PO Box 440, Wading River, NY 11792, llame al (631) 910-6200 o envíe un correo electrónico a dominichollow@cgmrcompliance.com. Visite www.NYHousingSearch.gov para obtener información adicional. Los solicitantes que presenten más de una solicitud pueden ser descalificados. Las solicitudes deben tener matasellos a más tardar el 30 de enero de 2023. No se considerarán las solicitudes tardías. Una lotería pública que se llevará a cabo en Saratoga Hilton el 13 de febrero de 2023 a partir de las 11 a. m.

要通过邮寄申请申请， 请将贴有回邮地址的邮票信封发送至 DOMINIC HOLLOW APARTMENTS, PO Box 440, Wading River, NY 11792, 致电 (631) 910-6200，或发送电子邮件至 dominichollow@cgmrcompliance.com。

访问 www.NYHousingSearch.gov 了解更多信息。 提交多于一份申请的申请人 可能会被取消资格。

申请的邮戳日期不得晚于 2023 年 1 月 30 日。逾期申请 将不予考虑。 将于 2023 年 2 月 13 日上午 11 点开始在萨拉托加希尔顿酒店举 行的公共彩票。

Pou mande yon aplikasyon pa lapòs, voye yon anvlòp ak so yo bay DOMINIC HOLLOW APARTMENTS, PO Box 440, Wading River, NY 11792, rele (631) 910-6200, oswa imèl dominichollow@cgmrcompliance.com. Vizite www.NYHousingSearch.gov pou plis enfòmasyon. Aplikan ki soumèt plis pase yon aplikasyon ka diskalifye. Aplikasyon yo dwe gen yon kach postal pa pita pase 30 janvye 2023. Yo p ap konsidere aplikasyon an reta. Yon lotri piblik ki pral fèt nan Saratoga Hilton le 13 fevriye 2023 apati 11am.

우편으로 신청서를 요청하려면 우표가 붙은 반신용 봉투를 DOMINIC HOLLOW APARTMENTS, PO Box 440, Wading River, NY 11792로 보내거나 (631) 910-6200으로 전화하거나 dominichlow@cgmrcompliance.com 으로

이메일을 보내십시오. 추가 정보는 www.NYHousingSearch.gov를 방문하십시 오. 1개 이상의 지원서를 제출한 지원자는 실격 처리될 수 있습니다 지원서는

2023년 1월 30일까지 소인이 찍혀야 합니다. 늦은 지원은 고려되지 않습니다

2023년 2월 13일 오전 11시부터 Saratoga Hilton에서 공개 복권이 열립니다

डाक द्वारा आवेदन का अनुरोध करने के लिए, DOMINIC HOLLOW APARTMENTS, PO Box 440, Wading River, NY 11792 पर एक स्व-पता लिखा हुआ स्टाम्प लिफाफा भेजें, (631) 910-6200 पर कॉल करें या dominichollow@cgmrcompliance.com पर ईमेल करें। अतिरिक्त जानकारी के लिए www.NYHousingSearch.gov पर

Upang humiling ng aplikasyon sa pamamagitan ng koreo, magpadala ng self-addressed stamped envelope sa DOMINIC HOLLOW APARTMENTS, PO Box 440, Wading River, NY 11792, tumawag sa (631) 910-6200, o mag-email sa dominichollow@cgmrcompliance.com. Bisitahin ang www.NYHousingSearch.gov para sa karagdagang impormasyon. Ang mga aplikante na nagsumite ng higit sa isang aplikasyon ay maaaring madiskwalipika. Ang mga aplikasyon ay dapat na nakamarka ng koreo nang hindi lalampas sa Enero 30, 2023. Ang mga huling aplikasyon ay hindi isasaalang-alang. Isang Pampublikong Lottery na gaganapin sa Saratoga Hilton sa Pebrero 13, 2023 simula 11am.

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SITUATIONS WANTED

HANDYMAN available for odd jobs. Roofing, painting, kitchens and baths, flooring, decks, basements and drywall, inside work and more. Call Ed 518-469-8048.

Administrative Opening Monticello Central School Assistant Principal

EDUCATION

TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-543-6440. (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required.

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk

Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 844-947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required.

The successful candidate should possess: Knowledge of research-based instructional programs & practices; exp. w/ teacher supervision & evaluation; a record successfully improving learning experiences and enhancing school to home communication; and can provide a supportive environment with knowledge of social, emotional competencies, restorative practices, and promote a culturally responsive educational climate. NYS SDAISDLISBL Certlflcatlon Required plus 1 yr. of previous administrative leadership and 2 yrs. exp. as a classroom teacher preferred.

Please apply online by Feb 2nd at https://montlcelloschools.tedk12.com/hire EOE

EOE

Puzzles

Writing the Right Word by Dave

See puzzle solutions on page 34

Dowling

Accuracy in word choice is a key to effective communication. In your daily writing and speaking, try to make sure you use the right word in the right place with the right spelling. By doing so, its effect will affect your communication in a positive way. This quick weekly tip will help you filter the confusion in some of our daily word choices.

This Week: Salon, Saloon

A salon is a large room usually used for entertaining people, cutting hair, or exhibiting artwork I waited at the salon to get my hair cut.

A saloon is a place where alcoholic beverages are sold. The cowboy sat down in the saloon for a shot of whiskey.

Dave Dowling is the author of The Wrong Word Dictionary and The Dictionary of Worthless Words. Both books are available from many book retailers, and signed copies can be obtained by contacting Dave at dave.dowling65@gmail.com

Ballston Spa Wrestling Wins Saratoga Invitational, Blue Streaks Place Third

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The Ballston Spa varsity wrestling team continues to roll, with the Scotties capturing first place in the Saratoga Invitational on Jan. 7.

Ballston Spa’s team score of 182.5 points put them on top, finishing ahead of second-place Shenendehowa (168.5 points).

Saratoga, the host school, placed third with 138.5 points.

Scottie seniors Darrien Insogna and Connor Gregory each won the finals in their respective weight classes. At 215 pounds, Insogna pinned Garrett Bidwell of Windsor High School at 3:53. Gregory, wrestling at 160 pounds, earned a forfeit victory over Windsor’s Mason McCombs in the finals.

Ballston Spa’s Ralph Keeney also advanced to the finals at 110 pounds, losing an 11-1 major decision to Luke Satriano of Valley Central. Tristan Hinchcliff and Cameron Hinchcliff, wrestling at 118 and 126 pounds, respectively, each won the consolation finals in their weight classes.

Eighth-grader James Capasso also advanced to the consolation finals at 145 pounds, falling via pin to Shen’s Davin Leavey at 4:20. Brennan Livingston, at 189 pounds, lost to Glens Falls’ Nathan Phipps in the consolation finals.

Saratoga sophomore Taylor

Beaury, at 126 pounds, won the finals by earning a 6-0 decision over Averill Park’s Jacob Hanlon. Senior Lorenzo Paleschi,

Saratoga Springs Rec Center Happenings

New Fitness Room at the Saratoga Springs Rec Department

wrestling at 189 pounds, advanced to the finals before falling via pin to Whitehall’s Troy Austin at 2:19.

At 152 pounds, Saratoga senior Gordon Murray won the consolation finals with a 7-4 decision over Ryan McManman of General Brown High School. Danny Dacey fell in the consolation finals at 132 pounds to Averill Park’s Jamie Bartlett via pin at 4:57, while Patrick McKinley lost to Lansingburgh’s Jayden Morales by a 3-2 decision at 215 pounds.

Ballston Spa (5-0 Suburban Council) resumed league play on Wednesday, hosting Averill Park (4-1 SC). Saratoga, also 4-1 in the Suburban Council, hosted Shaker (2-3 SC) on Wednesday. Both matches concluded after press time.

At The Races With Saul Steinberg Exhibition To Open Jan. 18 at The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame will open a new exhibition, At the Races with Saul Steinberg, in the Link Gallery on Jan. 18. Made possible by the generous donation of the artwork to the Museum’s permanent collection by the Saul Steinberg Foundation, the drawings featured in this exhibition span the period of 1955 to 1959.

Three were published in his book “The Labyrinth” in 1960. One was later published in the 1963 Sports Illustrated article “Steinberg at the Races’’ that featured scenes at racetracks from Paris to Los Angeles.

Steinberg (1914-1999) was born and raised in Romania. In 1933, after a year at the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters at the University of Bucharest, he applied

to the Faculty of Architecture but was denied entry because he was Jewish. Steinberg then moved to Italy, enrolled at the architecture school of the University of Milan, and began creating cartoons for the Italian humor magazines

Bertoldo and Settebello.

By 1940, Steinberg was seeking to leave Italy and started drawing for American publications. Once in the United States in 1942, The New Yorker offered him a contract. Soon after he was recommended for employment as a consultant at the Office of War Information, then received a commission in the U.S. Naval Reserve in 1943 and was granted citizenship. After the war, he returned to New York to resume his work.

Steinberg resisted convention throughout his career as an artist. He produced drawings,

The Scott T. Johnson Recreation Center offers popular exercise equipment including a treadmill, rowing machine, free weights, and more. Participants must sign up for a Drop-In Rec Card prior to coming. Visit www.SaratogaRec.com and click Programs, Rec Center, Drop-In Sessions for complete information.

Drop-In Fitness Classes

The Saratoga Springs Recreation Center at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue is currently offering drop-in classes in Balletone and Pumped up Strength. Balletone is a cardio and strength program that combines dance, pilates, and fitness moves, and is open to everyone 18 years and older. Pumped up Strength is a combination strength training and cardio program and is open to everyone 18 years and older. Both incorporate fun and energizing music to keep you moving. A City or Non-City Drop In Rec Card is required in order to participate. Visit www.SaratogaRec.com and click Programs, Balletone or Pumped-Up Strength for complete information.

Drop-In Sessions

The Saratoga Springs Recreation Center at 15 Vanderbilt Avenue is currently offering Open Adult (17+) Basketball, Open Gym, and Pickleball sessions. A City or Non-City Drop In Rec Card is required in order to participate. Visit www.SaratogaRec.com, and click on the basketball for the schedule, information, and to sign up for your City or Non-City Drop-In Rec Card. Contact the Recreation Department at 518-587-3550 x2300 or recreservations@saratoga-springs.org with questions.

Jr. NBA Scores Jr. NBA Scores

GAVIN PARK JR. NBA Scores & Top Scorers - Week 7

SARATOGA SPRINGS — See below for a list of results and top scorers from last week’s Gavin Park Jr. NBA action:

DIVISION 1

paintings, prints, collages, sculptures, and murals. Best known for the visual wit of his penand-ink drawings featured in The New Yorker for close to 60 years, Steinberg also contributed to other magazines, including TIME, LIFE, Vogue, Harper’s Magazine, and Sports Illustrated.

In 1952, Steinberg visited Saratoga Springs on commission from Harper’s to provide drawings for an article about the city. Though he previously produced a series of drawings of horses and their riders in the 1940s, this visit may have prompted his interest in thoroughbred racing.

“We are excited to exhibit the artwork of Saul Steinberg in a different light and bring together those with an appreciation of art as well as thoroughbred racing,” said museum curator Jessica Cloer.

CELTICS VS. WARRIORS

Celtics, 23: Anthony Moccia 10 pts, Danny Harms 7 pts

Warriors, 8: Ryan LaCasse 8 pts

LAKERS VS. KINGS

Lakers, 20: Trey Ordon 12 pts, Michael Windelspecht 4 pts

Kings, 2: Elijah Lynch 2 pts

DIVISION 2

PACERS VS. SUNS

Pacers, 28: Dylan McMillan 6 pts, Kyle Harness 4 pts

Suns, 22: Andrew Charron 10 pts, Connor Hogan 4 pts

CELTICS VS. BUCKS

Celtics, 40: Greyson Culver 22 pts, Ryan Horton 6 pts

Bucks, 30: Sam DeBenedetto 17 pts, Nicholas France 8 pts

MAVS VS. NETS

Mavs, 33: Will Schaefer 13 pts, Caleb Scarnici 4 pts

Nets, 16: Nicholas France 8 pts, Drew Britten 2 pts

DIVISION 3

CELTICS VS. TRAIL BLAZERS

Celtics, 42: Greyson Querbes 10 pts, Thomas Georgeadis 10 pts

Trail Blazers, 7: Jensen Ives 4 pts, Evan Theis 3 pts

BULLS VS. BUCKS

Bulls, 30: Shilo Parker 14 pts, Liam Nero 13 pts

Bucks, 13: Lee Lockrow 5 pts, Owen Verrigni 2 pts

Ballston Spa Boys and Girls Basketball Teams Earn Wins On Senior Night

�� STRIKE �� B’Spa Junior Bowls Perfect Game

by Dylan McGlynn Saratoga TODAY

BALLSTON SPA — Ballston Spa junior Kennedy Barker has grown up around bowling. And on what she described as “a perfect day for it,” Barker was perfect for the first time.

Barker bowled her first-ever perfect game on Jan. 4, rolling a 300 during the Scotties’ loss to Columbia at the Saratoga Strike Zone.

“I’ve been bowling since, like, literally forever,” said Barker. “My mom used to own Tippy Bowl, so it’s just crazy, finally having that achievement. It’s nuts.”

Barker’s mother, Mo Barker, was the former owner of the Tippy Bowl, a bowling alley in Ballston Spa that has since closed. Barker said bowling has helped build her relationship with her mom through the years.

BALLSTON SPA — The Ballston Spa varsity boys’ and girls’ basketball teams honored their seniors in grand fashion on Tuesday, with both teams picking up wins over Schenectady at home.

The Scotties’ girls’ team opened the night with a 67-42 win over the Patriots. The team honored three seniors: Payton Messina, Olivia Verdile, and Audra Davis.

Verdile had 17 points for Ballston Spa, with Messina adding 11 points in the win.

On the boys’ side, the Scotties rebounded from an early deficit to beat Schenectady, 69-61. The team honored five seniors pregame: Nick Verdile, Mike Miller, Ben Phillips, Aidan Davis, and Sean O’Rourke.

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The Scotties’ basketball squads also feature two sets of senior twins: Olivia and Nick Verdile, and Audra and Aidan Davis.

Verdile and Miller each had 22 points in the boys’ team’s victory, while Phillips added eight points. Greg Kaatz had nine points, with Blaine Zoller scoring five points for the Scotties.

The Ballston Spa boys’ team improves to 10-0 overall, and 6-0 in the Suburban Council, with the victory. The Scotties play at CBA (6-3, 4-2 SC) today.

The Scotties’ girls’ team moves to 6-5 (2-4 Suburban Council) with the win. They will next play a non-league contest at Schuylerville on Jan. 17.

“(My mom has) just always pushed me for the best and stuff like that,” Barker said. “Having that bond with her, it’s always grown our relationship.”

Ballston Spa varsity girls bowling head coach Ted Snyder said it was great to see Barker finish the perfect game, saying, “She’s a leader on our team.”

“Obviously, she has a huge bowling background. Grew up in the lanes, and everything else,” said Snyder. “She’s big-time into it, and does the junior tour and other things. … It just adds excitement, clearly, to the fact that she gets a perfect 300 the other night. It’s very, very cool.”

Barker said she began to

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realize she could bowl a perfect game around the fifth or sixth frame.

“I was kind of like, ‘There’s only a little bit more, I’ve just got to get through this home stretch and then we’re there’,” said Barker. “But I didn’t think it was actually going to happen until I was around the eighth or ninth (frames), and then I started sweating and like, ‘Oh my gosh.’ It was crazy.”

Snyder said after the eighth strike, he sent a text to varsity boys bowling head coach Rob Immel.

“I said, ‘It’s getting real serious here’,” Snyder said. “It just kept going from there. If you’re the coach of someone who’s got a no-hitter going, you just don’t talk to them. You just stay clear, you cheer them on, but you don’t get in. You don’t want to give them extra advice, just let them go. … After 11, she was getting to her final one, she gave a smile, like, ‘Here we go.’ It was great to see her finish it.”

Barker said her mindset for the final shot was to simply, “keep it on the lane.”

“Honest to God, my vision was blurry,” Barker said. “I went up there, and I was just like, ‘Let’s just repeat the same shot as last time.’ After I threw it, I literally couldn’t see out of my eyes.”

The shot, of course, was a strike, completing Barker’s perfect game. She said the celebration afterward was, “literally like a dog pile.”

“Everyone was here, all my good friends, so it was just great to spend that time with them too,” said Barker. “Perfect match to do it, honestly.”

Snyder, who is in his first year as head coach of the girls bowling squad, said it was the first time he has seen a perfect game in bowling.

“To witness that, to see that, is awesome,” Snyder said. “With the ups and downs, like in any sport, that you deal with, it’s awesome to always reflect and remember back to when you were perfect, when you had that great game. … It’s a great thing, I’m glad that she had it, and it was awesome that she had it here.”

Ballston Spa girls varsity bowler Kennedy Barker pictured with head coach Ted Snyder (Dylan McGlynn photo).

Ballston Spa seniors Mike Miller (left), Ben Phillips (middle), and Sean O’Rourke (right) pictured during the Scotties’ senior night ceremony on Tuesday.

Ballston Spa senior Payton Messina (5) enters the court during the Scotties’ senior night on Tuesday Photos by Super Source Media Photos.

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Barker also took a moment to shout out her first-year head coach for his efforts this season.

“He’s done so much,” said Barker of Snyder. “Even just this year alone, he’s done so much.”

Snyder said Barker’s perfect game can help inspire the team, and help build confidence heading into the remainder of the season.

“Going forward, it helps inspire the whole team, and look

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to see if we can win a few more matches this year, which we have the opportunity to,” said Snyder.

Barker said there was some luck involved in the 300, but said it was “awesome” to be able to finish it.

“A lot of it was just, the pins fell as they may, kind of thing,” Barker said. “I got extremely lucky in the second frame. … It’s half-luck, half-skill, but honestly, it was a perfect day for it.”

Saratoga YMCA Announces Pool Schedule Changes

SARATOGA SPRINGS —

This year, the Saratoga Regional YMCA will be continuing their partnership with the Saratoga Springs School District, hosting their Modified Swim Team. The team will be swimming from 3 to 4:15 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday

and Friday starting Jan. 23 and ending in mid-March.

This will limit the availability of pool space during these days and times. As such, the YMCA announced they are adjusting their pool schedule to best serve all members and our community.

Family swim will run from 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, and run from 4:15 to 8:45 p.m. on Fridays. No changes will be made to the reservation system at this time. Changes will be reflected in GroupExPRO.

B’SPA JUNIOR BOWLS PERFECT GAME continued from

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Ballston Spa Boys & Girls Basketball Teams Earn Wins On Senior Night

Ballston Spa’s Mike Miller (45) backs into a defender during the Scotties’ 69-61 win over Schenectady on Tuesday. Miller scored 22 points in the win. Photo by Super Source Media Studios. See pg. 34